Architect presents $10.3M–$12.3M feasibility study for Carpinteria High pool; local foundation pledges to fundraise

Architect Joe Wilcox of Kruger, Benz & Zanger presented a feasibility study on Nov. 26 for a proposed swimming pool at Carpinteria High School, laying out two options and preliminary cost estimates.

Wilcox described siting the pool north of the gym and south of the tennis courts, requiring relocation of a batting cage and placement of equipment and storage rooms on the east side. Key design elements called out in the presentation include required exit corridors between gym and pool, ADA ramps, retaining walls between pool and tennis courts, outdoor showers, sports lighting and a controlled public entrance. He said temporary tents could meet shade needs during events rather than permanent shade canopies.

On cost, Wilcox said the feasibility study includes soft costs (DSA fees, inspector fees, supervision, lab inspections), demolition and an allowance for potential dewatering if soils require it. “For this pool, it was $12,300,000,” he said when describing the larger option; the smaller option was listed in the study at $10,300,000. The estimate includes an escalation allowance out to the study’s target year. Wilcox also said the estimate includes vehicle‑charging stations to comply with CalGreen requirements for new construction.

Board members asked detailed questions about the chargers (whether fast chargers were required), the soils/dewatering allowance (Wilcox said the estimate includes pumps and piping at roughly $60,000), operating-cost assumptions and the potential for revenue generation if the larger pool could host tournaments. Board members noted savings from using existing gym restrooms and the potential to run two youth games side-by-side in the smaller option.

During public comment, Haley Fetters, president of the Warrior Pool Foundation, told the board the foundation “is committed to raising the necessary funds to build this pool for the school,” emphasized community enthusiasm and asked the board to partner on fundraising.

Why it matters: A high-school pool is a capital project with multimillion-dollar cost and ongoing operational requirements. The board and community will need to weigh upfront construction costs, annual operating and maintenance expenses, and fundraising potential.

Next steps: The study’s full report contains detailed line‑item estimates and operating-cost tables; board members requested renderings and further DSA review. Community fundraising groups signaled willingness to lead capital campaigns, but the board has not authorized design or construction; those steps would require future approvals and budget decisions.

Provenance: Presentation begins at the architect’s introduction and slides (SEG 771) and includes cost quotes and operating-cost discussion through board Q&A and public comment (SEG 872–1333).