Swimming in Waterloo Region

[UrbanWaterloo]

Asset Management, City of Waterloo
Link

The City of Waterloo is receiving millions of dollars from the provincial and federal governments’ economic stimulus funds to help get some of its shovel-ready projects off the ground at its recreational facilities.

That means there will be some closures at our facilities so that we can complete the work.

Current facility closures:

Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex Swimplex – It will be closed from June 28 to Sept. 29. There has been a slight delay with this project.
Track at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex – It is closed and is anticipated to reopen on Oct. 12.

WMRC Floor Replacement/Swimplex Rehabilitation
Some major upgrades are coming to the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex. For starters, the rubber flooring in the track area will be replaced. As well, a Swimplex rehabilitation initiative will include painting, hydraulic floor repairs and an overhaul of the mechanical system.
This $2.2-million project is being funded by the municipal, provincial and federal governments. The shares from the latter two are from the Ontario Recreation Program (REC) and the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) Program in Ontario, both of which aim to create jobs through upgrades and improvements to recreational infrastructure.

Anticipated Timeline
The Swimplex construction, track replacement and roofing began on July 8, 2010. Completion is anticipated for September 2010. The scheduled track flooring replacement is moving forward. It is closed and is anticipated to reopen on Oct. 12.

Status of Project
The project management and design/engineering aspects of the RInC projects have been awarded to the Walter Fedy Partnership. Ross and Anglin Ontario Ltd. has been awarded the finishes, pool equipment and related mechanical/electrical scope of work. On the track/arena side of the building, this includes the replacement of the track and change room flooring, the track area window blinds and the washroom/change room partitions. On the Swimplex side of the building, this includes new pool lighting and pool regrouting. In addition, the walls, ceiling and structural elements will be painted and the hydraulic floor and filter system will be rehabilitated.
Work has begun on the skate floor replacement in the lower lobby at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex, along with the dressing rooms, with the completion date targeted for Sept. 11.


WMRC Roofing Upgrades/Swimplex Door Replacement
Improvements are coming to the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex.
Some of the existing Swimplex stainless-steel doors – which have rusted and warped over time – and a portion of the roofing will be replaced.
This $924,000 project is being funded by the municipal, provincial and federal governments. The shares from the latter two are from the Ontario Recreation Program (REC) and the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) Program in Ontario, both of which aim to create jobs through upgrades and improvements to recreational infrastructure.

Anticipated Timeline
The Swimplex construction, track replacement and roofing began on July 8, 2010. Completion is anticipated for September 2010.

Status of Project
The project management and design/engineering aspects of the RInC projects have been awarded to the Walter Fedy Partnership.
Alliance Roofing and Sheet Metal Ltd. has been awarded the roof replacement and roof anchor installation scope of work.
Ross and Anglin Ontario Ltd. has been awarded the Swimplex stainless-steel door replacement scope of work.


Recreational Infrastructure Ontario
Link

Rehabilitation of Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex – Part 1
Federal Investment (up to, in $) 308,000
Provincial Investment (up to, in $) 308,000
Total Eligible Cost (up to, in $) 924,000

Rehabilitation of Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex – Part 2
Federal Investment (up to, in $) 735,350
Provincial Investment (up to, in $) 735,350
Total Eligible Cost (up to, in $) 2,206,050

[UrbanWaterloo]

Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex - September 14, 2010

[UrbanWaterloo]

Swimplex reopening postponed until September 29
September 21, 2010 | City of Waterloo | Link

The reopening of the Swimplex at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex has been postponed until Sept. 29.

Originally, the City of Waterloo anticipated it would reopen on Sept. 20. However, there were some slight delays with the construction work that has been underway there throughout the summer.

Thanks in part to funding from the Ontario Recreation Program and the Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program in Ontario, the city has been undertaking repairs and upgrades at several of its recreational facilities recently.

The Swimplex’s rehabilitation included refitting the filtration and pump equipment, replacing the hydraulic control system for the floor and replacing the lighting fixture in the pool, as well as tile and grout work for the pool and swirl pool.

“We apologize for the delay in reopening the pool, but are pleased with the results at the Swimplex. This facility will continue to be a hub of activity for years to come thanks to these upgrades,” said David Smith, general manager of the city’s community, culture and recreation services.

During the Swimplex’s temporary closure, residents have been enjoying the outdoor pool at the Moses Springer Community Centre. It’s a popular destination that provided lessons and programming to summer swimmers.

For more information, call the rec complex at 519-886-1177 or go to www.waterloo.ca/swim.

[UrbanWaterloo]

October 5, 2010

[Duke-of-Waterloo]

Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex Swimplex closed until further notice
December 27, 2010 | http://waterloo.ca/DesktopDefault.as...ew&ItemId=1447

Due to a construction accident that has caused some damage to the pool at the Swimplex, the City of Waterloo has closed the Swimplex to make necessary repairs.

The damages must be repaired in order to ensure the safety of our patrons. The city is currently assessing the damages and an anticipated re-opening date will be posted in the next few days.

Unfortunately, New Year’s Eve swims had to be cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience this closure may cause and assure you the site contractor is working hard to re-open the Swimplex as soon as possible.

For alternate holiday swimming opportunities, please visit the City of Kitchener’s website at www.kitchener.ca.

Up-to-date information regarding the re-opening of the Swimplex can be found on the City of Waterloo's website at www.waterloo.ca.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Swimplex expected to reopen on Jan. 15
January 2, 2011 | City of Waterloo | Link

The Ministry of Labour has released the site and repairs to the pool have commenced. Contractors over the next week will continue efforts in completing repairs to the floor, tiles and lighting system.

The fabrication and installation of the ramp that was damaged in the accident will be completed by the contractors by Jan. 11, 2011. Following the ramp installation, and an additional four days that are required to fill, heat and chemically balance the pool, the City of Waterloo is projecting a reopening date of Jan. 15, 2011 barring any unforeseen delays.

The extended shutdown will impact both our affiliated groups as well as the start date of the winter swim lesson session, originally scheduled to start on Jan. 6, 2011.

City staff will be calling our affiliated groups to inform them of the projected reopening next week. As well, staff will be revising the swim lesson schedule, based on the projected reopen date, and informing our swim lesson customers next week.

The city would like to thank all our Swimplex users for their patience while we work to complete repairs and reopen the pool as soon as possible.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Swimplex repairs are on schedule
Waterloo, ON | January 12, 2011 | Link

Repairs to the Swimplex at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex are on schedule following a construction incident that damaged the pool in late December.

The City of Waterloo expects the facility will reopen on Saturday, Jan. 15, barring any unforeseen setbacks. This week slide and deck repairs will continue, the pool will be filled with water and paint will be touched up. The moveable ramp has been replaced and lighting has been installed.

City staff will continue to contact customers regarding lesson date changes and credits. Please call the Swimplex information line at 519-886-3844 if you have any questions.

The city apologizes for any inconvenience this closure has caused, and thanks the community for its patience during this time.

Please visit www.waterloo.ca/swim for details on upcoming swim times, waterfit classes and lesson schedules.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Fee for three-month family swim pass adjusted
April 16, 2012 | City of Kitchener | Link

The community and infrastructure services committee has supported a plan that gives families who enjoy swimming more options to beat the heat and visit the city’s eight pools this summer, by adjusting the cost of a three-month family swim pass.

In 2012, a family three-month swim pass will cost $259.83, or $6.66 per swim based on a family that swims three times per week - a significant decrease from the previous rate of $365.61, or $9.37 per swim.

Future increases to the three-month family swim pass will be phased in over the next two years. In 2013, the rate will be $312.66. In 2014, the rate will be $365.61, subject to final budget approval each year.

City council will consider the issue for final approval next Monday, April 23.

“This is an instance where council made a decision during the 2012 budget process with the best of intentions, in approving the previous rate, but recognized that we should relook at the issue and its impact on the community,” said Coun. Kelly Galloway, chair of the community and infrastructure services committee.

The pass allows a family to swim an unlimited number of times within the three-month period, at any of Kitchener’s pools. The family rate is for all members of the family - two adults and an unlimited number of children.

Adjusting the cost of the family three-month swim pass balances the city’s goals of encouraging active living through swimming to residents, as well as the need to meet revenue targets achieved through use of its swim facilities.

The city also offers three-month swim passes for children and seniors for $102.37 and adults for $160.87.

Background

In 2011, the city began a review of the aquatic swim fees and charges. The review was prompted in part by patron requests for a swim pass that could be used any time of year, similar to the summer season pass.

In order to ensure consistency, this review involved analyzing current rates in addition to looking at the surrounding municipality’s rates to ensure competitiveness.

Based on these findings, the summer pass option was eliminated, due to its inconsistency with all other pricing. In its place, a three-month pass was developed using a formula specific to supporting swimmers who swim more than three times per week. A weekend pass option was created, as well as a daily rate.

[UrbanWaterloo]

City council approves new fee for family swim pass
April 24, 2012 | City of Kitchener | Link

In response to feedback from the community, and in attempt to make summer swimming and active living accessible and affordable for residents, last night city council voted in favour of adjusting the 2012 family three-month swim pass to $243.75, which works out to $9.38 per swim based on a family swimming twice each week.

The decision effectively changes the rate that was endorsed by the community and infrastructure services committee last week, which would have seen an increase to the cost of the family three-month pass phased in over the next three years. Under this model, the pass would have cost $259.83 in 2012, $312.66 in 2013 and $365.61 in 2014.

City council felt the one-time fee increase gives families who enjoy swimming more options to beat the heat together at all of the city’s eight pools - including Kiwanis Park, while helping the city meet summer revenue targets for its aquatic facilities.

“Providing affordable recreation options is so important and goes a long way in sustaining a healthy community and quality of life,” said Coun. Kelly Galloway, chair of the community and infrastructure services committee. “We wanted to ensure the increase we approved wasn’t too drastic or hindered our ability to deliver those options to families.”

The pass allows a family to swim an unlimited number of times within the three-month period, at any of Kitchener’s pools. The family rate is for all members of the family - two adults and an unlimited number of children.

The city also offers three-month swim passes for children and seniors for $102.37 and adults for $160.87.

Background

In 2011, the city began a review of the aquatic swim fees and charges. The review was prompted in part by patron requests for a swim pass that could be used any time of year, similar to the summer season pass.

In order to ensure consistency, this review involved analyzing current rates in addition to looking at the surrounding municipality’s rates to ensure competitiveness.

Based on these findings, the summer pass option was eliminated, due to its inconsistency with all other pricing. In its place, a three-month pass was developed using a formula specific to supporting swimmers who swim more than three times per week. A weekend pass option was created, as well as a daily rate.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Outdoor pool opens for the season this weekend
June 13, 2012 | City of Waterloo | Link

The outdoor pool at the Moses Springer Community Centre opens Saturday, June 16.

Public swims will run from 1:10 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, with lane swims and kidsplash from 5:10 p.m. to 6 p.m. Weeknight public and lane swims run from June 18 to June 27. Times vary so please visit www.waterloo.ca/swim for the complete schedule.

To celebrate Recreation and Parks month, Moses Springer Community Centre will be hosting a free public swim on Sunday, June 17 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The facility will be open daily from Thursday, June 28 to Sunday, Sept. 3, with a condensed schedule the last week of operation, Tuesday, September 4 to Sunday, September 9.

The cost per visit is $5 for youth and seniors and $5.50 for adults aged 18 to 54. Family day passes are $12.75 for up to four people. Individual and family season passes are also available for $81.76 per person or $181.51 for a family of four. Passes can be purchased at the pool or at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex.

The Moses Springer Community Centre is at 150 Lincoln Rd., in Waterloo.

For more information, please call 519-885-4530 or visit www.waterloo.ca/swim

[UrbanWaterloo]

City of Cambridge Offers Options to Help Stay Cool
Outdoor Pool Hours Extended to Beat the Heat
July 5, 2012 | City of Cambridge | Link

With temperatures continuing to climb, and the recent Environment Canada humidex advisory in place for Waterloo Region, the City of Cambridge would like to advise citizens of a number of options to stay cool in Cambridge.

The City of Cambridge is extending outdoor pool hours effective today and running through until Friday July 6th, at the Ed Newland Pool, George Hancock Pool, and Soper Pool.

OUTDOOR POOLS

• Ed Newland Pool - 515 William Street - (519) 653-7646
  
  Thursday, July 5
  1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Leisure Swim
  3:35 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. – Family Swim
  6:35 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Leisure swim
  
  Friday, July 6
  1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. - Free Leisure Swim Sponsored by Tim Hortons
  3:35 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. – Family Swim
  4:35 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Leisure Swim
  
  
• George Hancock Pool – 115 Glennmorris St – (519) 740-7178
  
  Thursday, July 5
  12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. - Family Swim
  1:30 p.m.– 4:00 p.m. – Leisure Swim
  4:25 p.m. – 5:55 p.m. – Family Swim
  6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Leisure Swim
  
  Friday, July 6
  12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. – Family Swim
  2:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Free Leisure Swim Sponsored by Tim Hortons
  5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. – Leisure Swim
  
  
• Soper Pool - 41 Marion Way – (519) 740-7173
  
  Thursday, July 5
  12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. - Teen and Adult Swim 1:45 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Leisure Swim
  4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Leisure Swim
  
  Friday, July 6
  12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Teen and Adult Swim
  1:45 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Free Leisure Swim Sponsored by Tim Hortons
  4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Leisure Swim

The City of Cambridge also operates two indoor swimming pools. The John Dolson Centre (212 South Street, (519) 740-4681 ext. 4527) and W.G. Johnson Centre (31 Kribs Street, (519) 740-4681 ext. 4469). Regularly scheduled swim times will continue at each of the centres.

SPRAY PADS

Alternatively, the City of Cambridge offers 11 spray pads available from 10:00am to 9:00pm daily. Spray pad locations are listed below:

• Central Park - 615 King. St. East
• Churchill Park - 200 Christopher Drive
• Ferguson Homestead - Cowan Blvd.
• Forbes Park - 16 Kribs St.
• Hespeler Optimist - Ellis Rd.
• Lincoln Park - Vimy Street
• Northview Heights - 120 Carter Crescent
• Riverside Park - 49 King St. W.
• Soper Park - Dundas St./Marion Way
• Victoria Park - Fisher Mills Rd.
• Weaver Park - Weaver St.

RECREATIONS CENTRES & 50+ CENTRES

Cambridge community centres, 50+ centres and Cambridge City Hall are other cool places to seek relief from the heat and there is potable water available through taps in all locations to fill your water bottle and stay hydrated. The centres are located at:

• John Dolson Centre, 212 South Street - (519) 740- 4681 ext. 4527
• W.G. Johnson Centre, 31 Kribs Street – (519) 740-4681 ext. 4469
• Allan Reuter Centre, 507 King Street - (519) 740-4681 ext. 4406
• David Durward Centre, 62 Dickson Street - (519) 740-4681 ext. 4360
• G.E. (Ted) Wake Lounge, (Located in the W.G Johnson Centre), 31 Kribs Street - (519) 740-4681 ext. 4469)
• William E. Paulter Centre, 1145 Concession Road – (519) 740-4681 ext. 4722
• Cambridge City Hall, 50 Dickson Street – (519) 623-1340

Please note: Programs and rentals may limit access to various locations within the facilities.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Drop in for the City of Cambridge’s Water Safety Awareness Day at the W. G. Johnson Centre on August 17
August 14, 2012 | City of Cambridge | Link

The lifeguards at the W.G Johnson Centre, 31 Kribs Street, will offer a Water Safety Awareness Day to arm people in the community with safety skills related to water on Friday, August 17th throughout the day beginning at 1:00pm.

The program gives family members an option to take 15 minutes before the start of the leisure swims to participate in a ‘Swim to Survive’ lesson with one of five lifeguards geared up for the program. The ‘Swim to Survive’ standard tests skills such as rolling into deep water, treading water for 1 minute, and swimming 50 meters with or without a life jacket.

“To encourage participation in the training session, we’ll give participants a leisure swim for free,” says Paula Ridge, Area Recreation Manager for the Johnson Centre. Other things to do include: lifesaving games, lifejacket fittings and education, a free CPR clinic and even a rescue demonstration by Cambridge lifeguards.

Note the regular pool schedule on August 17th will be modified as follows:

1:00 – 1:20pm: Swim to Survive Clinic
1:20 – 3:00pm: Leisure Swim
3:00 – 3:15pm: Rescue Demonstration
3:15 – 3:35pm: Swim to Survive Clinic
3:35 – 5:35pm: Family Swim

The CPR Clinic will take place in the W.G Johnson Centre Gymnasium between 1:00 and 6:00pm. The clinics will be a half hour long: 1:30 - 2:00pm, 2:30 - 3:00pm, BREAK, 3:30 - 4:00pm, and 5:00 - 5:30pm. For more information contact the W.G. Johnson Centre at 519-740-4681 ext. 4469.

[UrbanWaterloo]

Swimplex closed temporarily
January 14, 2013 | City of Waterloo | Link

Due to a mechanical malfunction of the moveable floor, the pool at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex will be closed from Monday, Jan. 21 to Monday, Feb. 4, 2013.

For the safety of our patrons it is necessary to close the pool while we undertake this unplanned repair work. Please note that swim lessons will be extended two weeks to ensure participants have an opportunity to complete all their lessons. Aquatic programs not affected by this situation are Leadership Programs (Bronze Medallion and higher) as well as Kinder Fun and Splash.

The additional swim lessons are scheduled as follows:

Mondays – March 11 & 18, 2013
Tuesdays – March 12 & 19, 2013
Wednesdays – March 13 & 20, 2013
Thursdays – March 14 & 21, 2013
Fridays – March 15 & 22, 2013
Saturdays – March 16 & 23, 2013
Sundays – March 17 & 24, 2013

To accommodate this extended schedule, swim lessons feedback week will run Tuesday, Feb. 19 to Monday, Feb. 25.

As the service work proceeds, we will receive a more detailed report regarding the mechanical problems and will update the public accordingly.