Accessibility renovations are complete
The Morris Pool officially opened for the season Sunday following extensive renovations and installation of an accessibility ramp.
“A new pool liner has been in the works for several years,” says Arien Peterson, manager for the Morris Area Recreation Commission.
Following feedback from the community and new provincial requirements mandating accessibility for community pools, there was a need to expand the original size of the project, from one that simply replaced crumbling concrete and degraded plumbing around the pool.
“Parents were finding it hard to bring pre-schoolers and younger children to the pool for water activities because the deeper depth of the shallow end,” Peterson said. “The town wasn’t able to offer senior programming either. Having the beach-front entry with wheelchair access enables pool access for the entire community.”
Those with mobility issues will also benefit from the ability to walk into the pool, rather than use a ladder.
A provincial grant was received through Building Sustainable Communities to cover almost half of the $615,000 end cost. An additional federal grant from Enabling Accessibility covered $100,000, with the remaining funds coming from municipal reserves.
Work started last fall with construction ahead of schedule into the spring. Wet weather this spring and the need for dry conditions to lay down fleece and pour cement meant delays to the planned May long weekend opening. The majority of June swimming lessons were cancelled or rescheduled for July. Peterson thanks the community for their patience.
“Community members have been great at rescheduling their lessons,” he said, noting 160 lessons were impacted. “For the first time ever, we are offering daytime and evening lessons in July to help accommodate the rescheduled June lessons.”
Daytime lessons will take place in August as expected. Group and private lessons are still available and can booked through the Town of Morris webpage.
“These renovations extend the life of the pool by 20 years if taken care of properly,” noted Peterson. “We’re really excited to have accessibility to all community members with this new feature and upgrade.”
The community can expect giveaways and a silent auction at the pool grand re-opening in mid-July, including a half-price swim.
