Pathways Health Centre for Children is hosting a special community open house on Friday afternoon.
They'll be showing off the second and final phase of the refurbishment of the therapeutic pool area.
Phase two was funded through a non-repayable contribution of nearly $800,000 from the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario.
It began in January 2023 and focused on upgrades to the change rooms and lobby areas to be even more inclusive and accessible.
In addition to wider doorways and automated fixtures, improved flow, additional showers, and new flooring, lighting and surfaces were all part of the project.
It was funded through donations from individuals, industry, labour, local business, service clubs and community organizations, as well as support from foundations and a number of grants.
Those improvements included mechanical and electrical upgrades allowing for fully automated water filtration, sterilization and chemical addition systems.
New pool tiles and grout were installed, there's a new pool deck and the pool room was repainted.
The aquatics facility continues to feature an accessible ramp, water wheel chair, a ceiling lift transfer system, and accessible change rooms.
Pathways is home to Sarnia’s only therapeutic pool, with a pool temperature maintained between 86 F to 90 F. These temperatures ensure maximum therapeutic, health and wellness benefits for all users.
The pool is 20’ x 60’ with a pool depth that progresses from 3’ to 5’ in the deep end.
Prior to the pandemic and the renovation projects, the therapeutic pool was visited by more than 800 children and young adults with disabilities every year, and close to 10,000 community members.
On September 18, 2023, staff at Pathways welcomed the community back to the pool for the fall session of pool programs.
Friday's open house is scheduled from 2:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the Pathways facility at 1240 Murphy Road.
Pathways said they won't be able to host community swimmers during this time.
You can visit www.pathwayscentre.org or Pathways Pool Facebook for further details.
