Construction took just over a year, finished on schedule
After being closed for over a year, the Recreation “Rec” Pool is reopening just in time for the end of the school year with an open house set for June 10.
Construction began in May 2018 and the project is expected to finish on schedule. Julianne Nola, the director of major capital projects for Design and Construction Management, said there was a possibility of an “early completion.” The soil had to be replaced, however, due to the discovery of “micro levels of naturally occurring asbestos in the soil,” so June 2019 remained as the original opening time.
Although the rec pool is reopening on schedule, some graduating seniors have expressed disappointment over not having the opportunity to make use of it.
“I feel the same way about the ARC,” said Natalie Hill, a fourth-year psychology major. “I wish construction hadn’t taken so long. I never got to use the Rec Pool, and the Hickey Pool has such odd hours it’s hard to utilize that pool as well.”
Jeff Heiser, Associate Director for Campus Recreation, said that the new facility “will be a great place to relax with friends, play a pick-up game of sand volleyball and even study” due to the availability of Wi-Fi. Students can also look forward to having “expanded opportunities for lap swimming, swim lessons, aqua fitness classes, outdoor yoga classes and special events and activities.”
Heiser also noted that the updates to the Rec Pool have made it “more inclusive,” as it now has “a gender-inclusive locker room complete with a separate shower, restroom and day lockers.”
Events to advertise the opening will begin with a giveaway of free scantrons on June 10, free ice cream and frozen treats on June 11, therapy fluffies on June 12 and a beach party on June 13.
Written by: Deana Medina — campus@theaggie.org
