There is still no timeline set for repairs to the leisure pool at the community centre.
The Penticton Community Centre welcomed back customers in September, with the main pool open, but structural engineers are still working with the city to determine what the best solution to the cracked drainage pipes will be.
After a $300,000 project to replace unsafe tiles around the pool in July, cracks in some of the fibreglass drain pipes below the leisure pool were causing it to drain, however the cause of the cracks are still unknown.
“We still don’t know the cause. We’re still trying to ascertain what the fix looks like to ensure that it’s a long-term solution,” said Simone Blais, communications officer for the City of Penticton.
It is unconfirmed whether or not the minor June 18 earthquake in Penticton could be the perpetrator.
“From there, once we know what the solution is, it’s figuring out the timeline, how long that will take,” Blais said.
She said once engineers have narrowed down the long-term solution there are still the steps of design and finding and sourcing required materials.
Blais said it’s “too preliminary to say” what the cost of the repairs would be, however the city is exploring whether insurance or warranty still applies with the original contractors who constructed the pool, which was completed in 2011.
The main pool remains open along with the hot tub as well as the sauna/steam room. Some swimming lessons for younger students who use the leisure pool have been modified to fit the lesson plan with the main pool.
“We’re working with our customers to find adaptations and make sure that whatever the program is suits their needs,” Blais said.
Blais said the city is updating customers through social media and online to let people know when they might face scheduling issues.
“It’s taken some jumping over logistic hurdles by staff,” Blais said, adding that larger swim meets on weekends have impacted public access with multiple lanes booked.
“There’s only a few (swim meets) this fall so it’s not every day,” Blais said.
Anyone who has concerns should contact the city to find out what options can be taken.
“We’re trying to work with them if they need to withdraw from classes, want credits on their account or prorated refunds, those types of things,” Blais said. “We’re doing our best to make sure that they’re taken care of.”
We have to say our customers have been fantastic and so patient and understanding during this time. We absolutely want to get this up and running as soon as possible. There’s lots of people jonesing to get back in the leisure pool.”
