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Salt water pool makes waves

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By LAURA CONE

THE SUN

Published: October 21, 2009

For people whose skin itches after a dip in a chlorinated swimming pool, a new indoor salt water pool should make a splash.

Community Association Vice-President Ann Marie LeBlanc said she expects the massive pool project - which includes a new spa, saunas in the locker rooms and new bathrooms - should be unveiled Nov. 1 during a grand opening celebration.

"So many residents were having allergic reactions to the heavily chlorinated swimming pools," said LeBlanc. According to LeBlanc, the cost of the saline water system for the new pool was $18,000.

The funds for the project came from a $2.1 million capital improvement fund approved by CA members. The money, now depleted, helped complete the renovation of the fitness center, a new maintenance building and the pool project. LeBlanc said funds for any future plans such as a renovation of Rollins Theater or a cafe would need to go back before the CA members for a vote.

"I have been in the construction area and I think people will be just as pleased as me," LeBlanc said. "I think they are going to be really happy. It is wonderful."

She said workers are waiting until the material has cured for the new surface of the pool before adding the salt water to prevent a ring. During the summer construction, the atrium bathrooms have been out of operation.

As part of the project, workers installed a heated spa donated by members of the Aquatic Fitness Club. They presented a check for $23,892.32 to the CA for the cost of the spa.

"It was a very nice, generous donation," LeBlanc said.

Jean Allen, treasurer of the Aquatic Fitness Club, said club members raised $16,000 for the spa in 1999. Even though the project was voted down, they put the money they had already raised into certificates of deposit and let it grow.

"Over the years people have wanted us to cough up that money and I said, 'No. When you dig the hole, we will give you the money.'"

A competitive swimmer, Allen said club members are currently training at the Apollo Beach Racquet Club, but look forward to using the new pool in SCC.

"I can hardly wait," she said. "Saline solution is better for your suits and skin. The swim suits are expensive and the chlorine eats them. It's hard on latex and elastic."

She hopes former club members, who donated into the special whirlpool tub fund, will attend the grand opening.

Editor Laura Cone may be reached at lcone@mediageneral.com.

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