Repair work underway on Victoria Park pool

TRURO, N.S. - Repair work began on Victoria Park pool recently with town crews prepping the popular outdoor facility to have the liner removed.

Replacing the liner is one of the big jobs and costs for the pool work will total approximately $1 million. Dealing with a deteriorating and inadequate change house - under COVID restrictions is another major task.

“Certainly, we would hope it would go faster but everything COVID has affected the pool,” Truro Mayor Bill Mills said. “The best time to start would have been a year ago, the next best time is today. That is my attitude, and now it’s underway.”

A community campaign to raise money for the pool has generated $92,000. Of that total, $42,000 is already in the bank leaving another $50,000 still to be raised.

Mills said he hoped the campaign would have raised more at this point but understands COVID has played a role in that progression as well.

“And now it’s summer and a lot of people are on vacation, so there are 100 hundred reasons there as well, but we’re moving forward, so it’s positive,” he said.

“We have made some federal applications for funding, and we’ll see where that goes too. But it’s on its way to being done.”

The town has set up the pool repair project on Canadahelps.org., for people to donate online. Those wishing to contribute can also send a cheque to the town or via debit at town hall, but not a credit card. All donations will receive a tax receipt.

PICKING UP THE SLACK

With the Victoria Park facility closed again this season, the pool in the Rath Eastlink Community Centre (RECC) is a place swimming enthusiasts can turn to for the activity.

“We understand with Victoria Park pool undergoing maintenance, there are a lot of people in the community who are missing being

in the water, and we are more than happy to accommodate everyone here,” said RECC director of partnerships and communication,

Michael Smith.

“We have had no issues this year with accommodating our members, as well as the general public, in the Wilsons Aquatic Centre, despite the restrictions put in place due to COVID.”

Smith said they will be removing the requirement of pre-registration for the pool on Aug. 3.

“We appreciate the patience of all of our users and recognize that pre-registration was not convenient for everyone, so drop-ins will be welcome as of the third” Smith said.

Members swim for free at the RECC while the public can purchase a day pass, which also includes access to skating and the fitness centre. Swim lessons are also available and registration for those is happening now.

Visit therecc.ca for more information.