YMCA of Sudbury reopened its pool Monday following a nearly $600,000 renovation to the aquatic centre's lap pool, deck area and sauna.
The project was supported by a $150,000 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), which was presented Monday by OTF volunteer, president and vice-chancellor of Huntington University Kevin McCormick and Cindy Blais from the office of MPP Jamie West.
The focus of the renovation was replacing the outdated ceramic tile lining of the deck and pool, which had a short life expectancy and health concerns relating to chipping and lifting. This was replaced by a fabric liner known as soft-walk, which as it sounds, has a soft texture and a bit of give to make for a more comfortable experience getting in and out of the pool.
Helen Francis, president and CEO of YMCA Northeastern Ontario, said this new liner will be a particular benefit to older members who access the space and those receiving physical therapy, as the slight bounce will reduce stress on the joints when walking or standing.
Northeastern Ontario’s pool was introduced with the building roughly 20 years ago, which Helen said is the life expectancy they can expect from this new liner if it is maintained properly.
Renovations also included replacing the pool’s valves, filters and gutters, as well as implementing a new UVA/ UVB sanitation system which will work together to keep the water cleaner. Lastly, the aquatic centre’s sauna was upgraded to provide a more comfortable lounge experience for guests.
These renovations would not have been possible without the support of the community and full-paying members, said Helen, whose contributions allow an average of 10,000 users to access the pool each year.
“This renovation was done to increase accessibility,” said McCormick, “and I think that's incredibly important because we need to have places for people to come together to work towards health that's open and barrier-free.”
In addition to the physical benefits of this renovation, McCormick said it is important to maintain the Y’s aquatic centre for the social and spiritual benefits of the seniors, young people and those in between, who share this space in harmony.
“I think pools are not just a place to swim or a place to do aquafit, but a place to meet people,” he said. “Space creates community and community creates an opportunity for people to come together … and become healthy.”
OTF is an agency of the Government of Ontario, which awards an average of 600 grants a year to support long-term community initiatives. Last year, OTF awarded $108 million to 629 projects.
