Editor, The News:
Re: Pool could close for a year (The News, Dec. 4).
I’m mad at myself for procrastinating for so long and not supporting Gordy Robson back in March when he raised his voice in favour of a new pool.
He is absolutely right – the swimming pool is arguably the best recreational facility around. It’s close to home, affordable, and good for every age and physical condition, including people with disabilities. It’s a base for local swim clubs and school teams.
But Maple Ridge is growing fast and the existing pool is already at capacity.
Limiting ourselves to repairing the old pool as the only option means planning for immediate access shortage.
We need a new pool, with more and longer lanes to match future growth.
Upgrading the old pool should not be an alternative, but an additional option.
The latest news about closing the existing pool for lengthy repairs is ridiculous.
Leaving people without a pool for a year is a bad idea.
Pavel Tkatchouk
Maple Ridge
