Fountain Park pool in St. Albert, Alta., is set for closure throughout July and August 2024, which has disrupted residents’ summer swimming plans.
According to a report by St. Albert Gazette on the city’s decision to close the pool and the citizen’s reactions to it, the closure was announced by the city due to warrantied repairs following the extensive $16.5 million pool closure and rehabilitation work from May 2022 to July 2023.
The upcoming repairs include addressing tile defects, which includes draining the pool, along with paint touch-ups and electrical work.
The report continued by stating city officials assure there would not be additional costs as the repairs are still under warranty, and its will have minimal impact on regular programming. However, the closure has left residents disappointed, as they would have to travel to Edmonton for summer swimming activities. Mentioned in the report, one citizen had reservations about the alternatives within St. Albert, such as the Servus Place’s Landrex Water Play Centre, citing it as less suitable for lane swimming.
Moreover, as per the report, the city plans to announce details about the impact on summer swimming programs in spring, with expectations of relocating some classes to Servus Place. Regular Fountain Park attendees anticipate increased usage of outdoor pools during the closure. One citizen hopes the closure prompts the city to consider an extended season for the Grosvenor Pool, offering more opportunities for residents to enjoy outdoor swimming if the weather permits. Fountain Park pool is scheduled to close on July 2.
