Pool Renovation Plans Announced

For nearly seven years, the future of the 56-year-old Lititz Springs Pool was uncertain. Lititz recCenter, Lititz Borough, Derck and Edson, and Pelger Engineering have planned a comeback for the aquatics recreation facility. As of Aug. 26, construction and grant contracts in the works since 2018 were being executed to not only secure a renewal of Lititz Springs Pool, but a plan to have the fully renovated pool open for the summer of 2020.

Months of effort in navigating design and engineering details, budgets, contracting, and grant funding have yielded a $4.5 million project plan that will not drastically change the landscape of the complex, but will enable the pool to operate with new, efficient life systems, ADA compliant access, remodeled bathhouses, and new and expanded aquatics recreation space.

Filtration, pumps, piping, circulation, and chemical systems, which are all hidden from view, are the most costly and critical parts of the project. Expanding pool space and incorporating new features adds to the capacity needed from new systems.

The bathhouses will be remodeled to include all new finishes, fixtures, and floor plans, plus a handicapped-accessible family changing and shower room.

While, ultimately, project budgeting will not allow for a separate third wading pool for toddlers to be retained, the main pool will be expanded with a large beach-like zero-entry area for both young children and adults to enjoy. This area will include bubblers for young ones, a geyser, and a slide feature for children of all ages.

The diving boards will remain, and a new open spiral slide will be added. Plans include a floating lily pad and and cargo net system also. Benches for relaxing and viewing will be incorporated into shallow areas. A large open area for swimming and play will remain in the center of the main pool.

While the completed pool will appear very much the same after construction, this pool's piping, filtration, and surfaces will all be redone to eliminate issues. This pool was not original to the pool complex, but after many decades, it, too, has succumbed to age and deterioration. Large areas of pool deck and grass will remain for swim competition use surrounding the pool.

The most notable new feature will be a large splash pad, with a natural theme. Fountains, sprayers, geysers, bubblers, raining trees and more will give pool users of all ages a space to play outside of the main pool. Both this space and the zero-entry area will make water play possible for individuals with physical limitations.

Although state grants combined with municipal funds from Lititz Borough, Warwick Township, and Elizabeth Township make up more than half of the project cost, another $2 million remains the burden of Lititz recCenter, the organization which will operate, manage, and staff the rebuilt Lititz Springs Pool complex. The nonprofit regional recreation provider, which just celebrated 75 years of operation, has secured more than $1 million in donations from local businesses, organizations, and individuals. Fundraising will continue through the opening of the newly renovated pool, with opportunities for more donations to be made online and as pledges over time to support the pool.

Lititz Springs Pool was scheduled to close on Sept. 2, with construction slated to begin on Sept. 3. The all new Lititz recSprings Pool is anticipated to welcome community members for its first season in the summer of 2020.

Progress updates on the project will be available at http://www.lititzrec.com.