Calvert County approves $5.8M overhaul of Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center; work order awarded to Centennial

Calvert County commissioners voted to award work order number 100And43800And18 in the amount of $5,809,450 to Centennial Contractors Enterprises Incorporated to replace the Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center's HVAC, dehumidification systems, roof and lighting.

Parks and Recreation Director Bob Bridal, Aquatics Division Chief Brandon Medea and Aquatics Facility Manager Zachary Brickey presented the project and said the facility's mechanical systems have reached or exceeded expected lifespans. "The total cost of the project is $5,809,450," staff told the board, and explained that the proposal includes mechanical, electrical, roofing and scaffolding work needed to avoid recurring failures that have already disrupted programming.

Staff said the existing HVAC is operating at less than 50% of required capacity at times, which has prompted meet cancellations and unsafe conditions. Project materials include a thermoplastic polyolefin roofing system and LED lighting that can be lowered for maintenance to avoid annual full shutdowns. Lead times for specialty equipment — six to eight months for pool dehumidifiers and two to three months for rooftop HVAC units — prompted staff to propose staging deliveries on site ahead of a planned May 1, 2026, closure to allow contractors to begin work immediately.

The county said the closure window will span May through October 2026, with a targeted reopening in October. Staff and commissioners stressed a multi‑channel communication strategy, prorated pass/refund options and outreach to high‑impact users such as swim teams and therapy clients. A motion to approve the contract was made, seconded and passed by voice vote.