Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Memorial Pool Feasibility topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Simsbury feasibility study weighs splash pad, bathhouse renovation and full pool rebuild at Memorial Park
Summary
Parks officials say a feasibility study will present options for Memorial Pool ranging from bathhouse upgrades and a splash pad to a full rebuild estimated at $3–$4 million; staffing and operating costs are major considerations.
The town of Simsbury is conducting a feasibility study on Memorial Pool that will offer options including renovating the bathhouse to meet accessibility standards, installing a splash pad and, as a higher‑cost option, rebuilding the pool and supporting facilities.
Tom Taberski, the town’s culture, parks and recreation director, said the existing pool dates to 1957 and that major elements — the pool shell, decking and mechanical systems — have not had comprehensive updates. "If you're gonna do any kind of renovation, you're basically building as new up there," Taberski said.
Why it matters: the pool sits at a busy park used for youth sports and public events; changes would affect swim lessons, day camp operations and evening programming that can draw hundreds of people.
Cost and operations: Taberski told the interview that a full rebuild of the pool and building could be roughly $3 million to $4 million. He also flagged ongoing staffing and utility costs as key issues, noting the facility requires multiple lifeguards per shift and that minimum wage and electric costs are rising. "Minimum wage now is significant," Taberski said, adding that current operations rely on eight to 10 lifeguards per shift when the pool is open.
Public process and timing: Taberski said the feasibility work should produce design options this summer and that the department expects to hold another public information session in mid to late August at the Simsbury Library for further community feedback. He reiterated that the town must weigh community preferences — some residents strongly favor a splash pad while others want to retain swimming options — against capital and operating costs.
Next steps: the town will use the feasibility study and resident feedback to prioritize capital spending in future budget cycles. Taberski asked residents to monitor the master plan process and upcoming public sessions so officials can factor public input into final recommendations.
