The Sheridan City Council has approved a significant renovation project for the Kendrick Park Pool, awarding a contract to Dick Anderson Construction for a total project cost of $5,433,884. The decision follows a comprehensive assessment of the pool's condition, which has been in operation for 87 years and was deemed to be at the end of its useful life.

Public Works Director Holmes Mercer presented the project, highlighting a 2014 condition assessment that indicated urgent renovations were necessary. A community survey revealed that 71% of residents prioritized the pool's renovation, prompting public meetings to gather input on desired features. The community expressed a strong interest in amenities such as water slides, a splash pad, and additional recreational space for older children.

The project underwent extensive value engineering to align with budget constraints, resulting in a revised design that includes a new mechanical building, updated pool heater, and treatment facilities. While some features, such as a climbing wall and an iconic frog slide, were not included in the final bid, efforts are underway to secure local sponsorships for these additions.

The project is funded through Capital Tax and a $500,000 Land Water Conservation Fund Grant. With a total of $5.6 million currently allocated for the renovation, the council is optimistic about the project's potential to enhance community recreation and address the aging infrastructure of the pool.

Council members expressed support for the project, acknowledging the importance of the pool to the community and the need for timely renovations, especially given the current state of the existing facilities. The council's decision marks a significant step towards revitalizing a cherished local resource.