Jenny Thompson Pool in Dover to receive $2.5 million upgrade this fall

DOVER — There are $2.5 million in repairs and upgrades slated for the Jenny Thompson Outdoor Pool, but they should not hinder this summer's activities.

Eric Sanderson, facilities project manager for the city, said bids for the work are anticipated to go out at the end of summer, with work to begin in the fall.

What upgrades are planned at Jenny Thompson Pool?

Weston and Samson Engineers will create the design services, engineering, construction documents, and permitting for the renovation of the 47-year-old Jenny Thompson Pool for $196,550.

According to city reports, the pool's foundation has significant structural cracking, leading to excessive water loss. The entire deck needs resurfacing, and pumping and filtration equipment was last replaced about 25 years ago.

"We will be doing typical maintenance now to get the pool ready to open for this summer," said Sanderson. "The recreation department is prepared if they have to close a little early to get started, but that hasn't been decided yet."

Sanderson said the plan is to award the bid and begin construction this fall.

"They will work until winter stops them and start back up again in the spring," he said. "The first 2025 swim meet is typically in May, and that could be slightly delayed.

Sanderson said the pool was built in the 1970s. General wear and tear, he said, dictated the need for the work.

"We looked at options, but repairing the pool was the best choice," said Sanderson. "We will replace all the gutters and decking, then repair the concrete and install new gutters. We will re-gunite the pool."

All lifeguard stands and diving boards will be replaced.

"We have a 1-meter and a 3-meter board right now," he said. "I think, for liability reasons, we are going to have two, 2-meter boards installed. Then we have some maintenance work to do in the pump house."

The project will cost $2.5 million. Sanderson said $2 million is in the city's capital reserve budget. The remaining $500,000 will come from a state LWCF grant (Land, Water and Conservation Fund).

The 50-meter pool, named for a Dover Olympian, is used for recreation and competitive swim meets. It traditionally opens toward the end of June.

This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: Jenny Thompson Pool in Dover to get $2.5 million upgrade this fall