Council approves $200,000 pool UV upgrades and new lightning-detection system for parks

The Laramie City Council on May 20, 2025, approved an amendment to the fiscal-year appropriations to add funding for ultraviolet (UV) disinfection upgrades at city indoor pools and to purchase a ThorGuard lightning-detection system for the city’s outdoor aquatic facilities and several ball-field complexes.

Director Bork, Parks, Recreation and Events, told the council the requested $200,000 would add UV replacement to an existing sand-filter replacement project so the work can be done concurrently. "Because this is a 20-year-old system, we're having additional difficulties finding replacement parts," Bork said, explaining staff’s recommendation to advance the timetable. Bork said the combined work is expected to require a shutdown of pool facilities for about three weeks, starting the last week of August.

The resolution also authorized procurement of a ThorGuard lightning-detection system intended to increase safety at outdoor recreation sites. Bork said the system uses static-electric-field detection, triggers a 15-second siren and strobe when a hazardous level is reached, and will automatically shut down systems such as the splash pad and the outdoor pool; an automated "all clear" will be signaled by three to five short blasts when conditions are safe. The proposed installation includes a base unit near City Hall and six remote repeater units to cover Levante Park, Cowboy Field, Undine (splash pad), Washington Park wading pool, the outdoor pool at the recreation center and other athletic fields. Bork said the siren can be heard roughly 600 to 800 yards and that the ThorGuard vendor provides a public-facing mobile app.

Councilors asked about system durability, public reaction to the siren and strobe, and warranty and maintenance. Bork said the UV equipment typically carries a five-year warranty and, with proper maintenance, can last 15–20 years; he said his experience with ThorGuard units has shown field units operating more than 10 years. Councilor Newman asked whether the public could access the detection data; Bork said there is an associated app that members of the public may use. Vice Mayor Richardson and others supported the safety focus; the motion to amend appropriations and procure the systems passed on roll call, 8-0, with one member absent.

Staff said exact procurement costs for the ThorGuard system were not stated in the council discussion and will be included in contracting documents; the UV replacement cost was presented as $200,000 added to the existing pool sand-filter project. Director Bork said staff plan to present a maintenance contract in 2026 for the UV equipment.

Councilors and staff said the ThorGuard deployment is intended to reduce uncertainty for field staff and the public during storms and to automate facility shutdowns for safety reasons.