Poulton Iron Beach plans community pool renovation with $4.3M HUD funding

The Town Council of Fort Myers Beach is making significant strides towards revitalizing community facilities, particularly the long-awaited community pool project, which is set to be funded through the Community Development Block Grant Recovery (CDBG-R) program. During a recent council meeting, Frank Kropatschek, the Compliance and Operations Director, provided an update on the progress of the CDBG-R program, emphasizing the importance of adhering to federal guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Kropatschek reported that the town is nearing the final stages of the bidding process for the pool and other related projects, which include improvements to Newton Park and lighting enhancements in the downtown area. The total budget for these initiatives is approximately $4.3 million, with the community pool being a focal point of the funding. The council aims to have a design firm selected by mid-2025, with hopes of having the pool operational by the end of 2026.

The design phase will involve community input, although Kropatschek noted that the process will be expedited due to strict timelines imposed by HUD. Residents will have opportunities to provide feedback on the design, but the overall footprint of the pool area will remain unchanged, focusing instead on aesthetic enhancements and improved functionality.

Council members expressed their commitment to ensuring that the project meets community needs, with discussions highlighting the potential for the pool area to serve multiple purposes beyond just swimming. Ideas for additional amenities, such as seating areas and event spaces, were also explored, aiming to create a vibrant community hub.

As the council moves forward, they are determined to keep the project on track, with regular meetings scheduled to monitor progress and ensure compliance with HUD requirements. The revitalization of the community pool is not just about restoring a facility; it represents a broader commitment to enhancing public spaces and fostering community engagement in Fort Myers Beach.