Construction on City pools under way, all to be ready for 2006 season

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At long last, Plainfield kids -- and parents -- can look forward to all the City's pools being open next summer.

In recent years, the pools have needed extensive repairs and construction, causing Rushmore to be closed completely in 2005. The pool at Hannah Atkins Park was completed earlier, along with a new Teen Center.

But the Rushmore Park and Seidler's Field pools projects have proven to be trouble- some. At first, it seemed that a simple replacement of pumps was all that was needed. However, inspections revealed that both pool shells needed total reconstruction.

Getting the funding organized and overcoming difficulties with bids meant that work was not able to get under way earlier in 2005.

As a result, youngsters had to be bused from the West End to Seidler Field this past summer, straining the Recreation Division's budget.

"We're really pleased that work has finally gotten under way," said Recreation Division Director David Wynn, "and look forward to giving our users new facilities that will be within walking distance."

Besides the total reconstruction of both pool shells, new outdoor showers will be installed, as well as splash pad areas with various splash formations for small children and those who don't swim.

Funding for the projects is made possible through grants from the New Jersey Green Acres Program and matching funds from the City of Plainfield. Stoneridge Aquatic Construction, Inc., of Feasterville, PA, has been awarded the contract. Work began the week of December 5th.


With the completion of the new construction, all three City pools with their enhancements will be up and running by the start of the 2006 season, according to Wynn.

For more information, call the Division of Recreation at (908) 753-3096.

Keywords: Plainfield, recreation