Aquatics study finds major repairs at Miller and Tiki pools; preliminary estimate ~$4.2 million

At the Oct. 1, 2025 meeting of the Lancaster Board of Park Commissioners, consultant George Deines presented an Aquatics Study that catalogued structural, mechanical and safety deficiencies at Miller and Tiki pools and outlined options to operate as-is, renovate, or replace the facilities.

The study lists multiple equipment and facility needs at Miller Pool, including replacement of aging recirculation components and corroded sand filters; sandblasting and repainting the pool surface; static water-tightness testing to locate leaks; significant deck repairs or full deck replacement to ensure drainage and stability; separate, ventilated chemical storage to prevent equipment corrosion; a structural assessment of the mechanical room; updated depth signage and "No Diving" markings; repairs to gutters, railings and exposed rebar; replacement of lifeguard stands; and installation of ADA-compliant entry points. The report also recommends that Millers main drains meet the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA) standards and that the childrens pool receive a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) and secondary UV disinfection to guard against pathogens such as Cryptosporidium.

Tiki Pools findings include sandblasting and repainting after resolving water-loss issues; deck and coping repairs where cracking and heaving occurred; replacement of a corroded diving board and stands; tower and mechanical repairs for the waterslide; upgrades to the recirculation system (including consideration of variable frequency drives to improve energy efficiency); separate ventilated chemical storage; updated depth markers and signage; additional ADA-compliant entry points; and SVRS and UV disinfection for childrens pool components.

The study attached a preliminary opinion of probable construction cost (dated Sept. 30, 2025) that lists a Miller Pool subtotal of about $1,644,352.21 and a Tiki Pool subtotal of about $1,856,732.28, yielding a combined pool subtotal of $3,501,084.49. Applying a 20% contingency to the subtotal produced a total aquatics cost estimate of approximately $4,202,000.

After the presentation and a board Q&A, Superintendent Steve Gayfield told the board that "the next step is reviewing the survey information and make recommendations, based on 1) operating as-is, 2) potentially renovating, or 3) replacing." The board did not vote on capital spending at the meeting; next steps described on the record were further review of the survey and staff recommendations.

Why it matters: the recommended scope of repairs and safety upgrades crosses technical, ADA and public-health lines and would require capital funding decisions that could affect the Parks & Recreation fund balance, operating schedules and program availability. The board will consider the study and the community survey results before making any formal capital request.