The therapeutic pool at Pathways Health Centre for Children has reopened for the first time since the onset of the pandemic.
Executive Director Alison Morrison said it's the first time users have been welcomed into the pool area since the $1.6 million refurbishment project was completed.
"The pool refurbishment involved extensive changes being made on the thirty-year-old infrastructure," said Morrison. "This included mechanical and electrical upgrades allowing for fully automated water filtration, sterilization and chemical addition systems. Users will also note new pool tiles and grout, a new pool deck and repainting of the pool room. The aquatics facility continues to feature an accessible ramp, water wheel chair, a ceiling lift transfer system, and accessible change rooms."
The work was completed by Acapulco Pools Ltd. of Kitchener and several local subcontracted trades.
“We are proud to provide such a unique service to the Sarnia-Lambton community, and the changes and additions we have implemented means we can continue this well into the future,” Morrison said.
Over 800 children and young adults with disabilities, and close to 10,000 community members, visit the pool each year.
Morrison said additional COVID-19 precautions are in place for those using the pool.
"Pathways aquatic services will first open for those requiring rehabilitation services and will slowly increase in alignment with public health directives to include community programs."
Further details are posted at www.pathwayscentre.org or the Pathways Pool Facebook page.