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By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief
VICTORY TOWNSHIP — A citizens’ committee established by West Shore Community College to study recreation facilities and opportunities in the area is recommending that WSCC renovate its swimming pool. The report of the recreation task force will be presented at the WSCC Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, Feb. 17.
WSCC President Scott Ward established the committee last March partially in response to conversations about whether the college should renovate or close its 50-year-old pool.
The committee is recommending the college renovate its pool.
“After thorough consideration of our recreational facilities and the broader community’s needs, the WSCC pool is an important resource,” the committee report states. “Renovating the natatorium at an estimated cost of $3.5 million would ensure the continued availability of this amenity. This project would address structural and operational deficiencies while supporting WSCC’s commitment to community wellness and recreation. If approved, this project would take approximately one year to complete after commencement of construction.”
The committee is also recommending hiring an aquatics director to oversee pool operations and to develop new programming such as swim lessons and open swim opportunities, and foster partnerships to maximize utilization.
It is also recommending the construction of an indoor facility with track and turf.
“There is strong community interest in an indoor track and turf facility, as reflected in surveys and discussions. While this project would be a long-term goal, beginning the feasibility and planning process in the near future will position WSCC to meet future regional needs. Inclusion of this project in the next Facility Master Plan would be an appropriate next step.”
The WSCC Recreation Center, which includes the pool, was opened in 1975. The pool faces major upgrades, according to Ward. He said the swimming pool annually has an approximate $100,000 loss in revenue. While the college has performed updates to the pool facility over the last several years, major work is needed to the pool is the actual infrastructure of the pool.
Scott stated in a December interview with MCP that the task force’s recommendation was the first step in considering the future of the pool — and other recreational needs. The next step will be to hold a public forum in March. The Board of Trustees will then make a final decision about the pool in April.
The Board of Trustees will hold its regular monthly meeting on Monday, Feb. 17 at 4 p.m. in the North Lounge of the Administrative and Conference Building on its main campus.
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