Engineering report cites major repairs and $1.32 million estimate to restore Grace Pool

Freetown-Lakeville — An engineering assessment presented to the Freetown-Lakeville Regional School Committee on Nov. 12 concluded that the Grace Pool is in "fair to poor" condition and estimated $1,323,550 to restore it to good working condition.

Jack Higgins summarized the Aquatica Pools Inc. report received Oct. 15, which identified structural and mechanical needs including a deteriorated stainless-steel gutter return, a pool equipment room that should be secured, undersized or aged filtration and recirculation systems, piping replacement, and a pool lift needing replacement. The report also recommended converting the single main drain to two drains to meet current safety codes.

"The estimated cost to restore to good condition is stated in the assessment as $1,323,550," Higgins said. Committee members asked whether the figure is a menu of options or an inclusive estimate; Higgins said the number includes items such as altering shallow and deep end depths and that the pool subcommittee will provide more detailed cost and operational estimates.

The committee’s pool subcommittee reported it will reconvene to review answers from Aquatica and Habib & Associates and to gather operational cost comparisons, with an initial report due to the full committee by January and a comprehensive report by April. Members said they are also researching current district costs for outsourcing swim needs and what peer districts pay for contracted pool services.

No funding measure was voted at the meeting; the committee deferred decisions until the pool subcommittee delivers its recommendations.