Report Details Numerous Problems at Mills Pond Pool

While roof work, road improvements, a proposed track/multi-use field and the drive for a new highway garage location and facility have received much attention as of late, the town has another major infrastructure challenge on its hands — Mills Pond Pool.

With a facility that opened in 1973, its general condition is not a surprise, but a recent study of the facility recommends a laundry list of needs, including $487,160 in short-term recommendations. Of that, items deemed "high priority" total $214,449. Some of those recommendations are replacing the pool decks and drainage at an estimated $129,470, repairing of the concrete pool shell at some $23,540, replacing the pool pump for $6,473 and replacing all valves, hangers and supports at an estimated $8,827.

The report also includes another potential $322,351 in less immediate suggested changes but for the long term, the report recommends building a new swimming pool and related infrastructure as well as the complete renovation of the pool house. The estimated cost would be $2.3 Million.

Chester-based TLB Architecture conducted the $19,500 study.

“The study done by TLB is eye-opening as well as long overdue,” Brian Wilson, director of Parks and Recreation wrote to the Board of Selectmen.

Wilson’s memo also states that the pool remains a well-used resource in town, with an average daily attendance of 397 in 2011.

Wilson and TLB will provide a presentation on the study to the Board of Selectmen on Wednesday March 14 at 7 p.m.  The meeting will take place in the Community Center, 40 Dyer Ave., Room F.

The public is welcome.