Construction on Mt. Carmel’s new aquatic center continues to make progress, while the project has also received another significant boost from private donations.
Mayor Joe Judge provided an update during Monday afternoon’s Mt. Carmel City Council meeting, saying crews are scheduled to pour concrete for the entry and concession areas Thursday.
Once that work is completed, crews will begin painting portions of the building’s interior, including the chemical room, even before the roof is installed. Judge said rafters are expected to go up over the next two to three weeks, followed by decking and roofing work on the two buildings.
The new aquatic center will also incorporate pieces of Mt. Carmel’s former pool facility.
Judge said large wooden beams salvaged when the old bathhouse was demolished were recently cut into boards. Those boards will be used for the ceilings above the new concession stand and entryway.
Judge said the boards turned out beautifully and will likely be clear-coated and left with a natural finish. Reusing the lumber will also provide savings compared with purchasing the materials originally planned for those areas.
Another piece of the old pool’s history will return this week. Judge said the WPA plaque saved from the cornerstone of the former building will be installed near the entrance to the new aquatic center.
Meanwhile, fundraising for the project continues. Judge announced the city has received $105,000 in donations and commitments toward the pool project over the past two weeks, with additional contributions expected in the coming weeks.
Judge thanked everyone who has contributed to the project.
The city is also updating its naming-rights sponsorship book after a number of available items have already been purchased. Judge said updated information will soon be available for individuals or businesses interested in sponsoring a portion of the new aquatic center.
