Image Credit: City Of Carlsbad
(North County Beat) – Starting this November, the Alga Norte Aquatic Center will be closed for three months for significant renovations, including upgrades to the restrooms, locker rooms, and pool surfaces.
On July 23, the City Council authorized the city clerk to seek construction bids for two major projects at the aquatic center: one focused on updating the restrooms and locker rooms, and another on replastering the pool’s aging surface.
The renovation of the locker rooms and restrooms will involve replacing floor and wall tiles, repairing wall framing, installing new waterproofing, updating floor drains, making additional ADA improvements, and rebuilding the showers. This project will cost around $1.125 million, funded by a legal settlement from the center’s original contractor, who had previously declined to cover these repairs under the pool’s warranty.
Approximately $651,000 from the settlement will remain for future repairs.
The city will also replaster the pools at a cost of about $2.64 million, funded by the city’s capital improvement budget. According to city staff, commercial pool plaster typically lasts between 10 and 15 years. The 11-year-old pools have shown increased wear, including cracking and spalling, requiring sections to be closed for repairs.
Public Works Manager John Maashoff stated that the pool systems are reaching the end of their useful life, prompting the recommended refurbishment. The replastering project will include replacing tiles with depth markers, warnings, and lane markers, as well as lighting fixtures and drain grates. It will also involve inspecting and repairing cracks in the concrete substructure.
The aquatic center features a 56-meter competition pool, a 25-meter instructional pool, and a 250-square-foot hydrotherapy spa.
The City Council unanimously approved both renovation projects, with Councilmember Teresa Acosta stating, “The plans are well thought out.”
Renovations will take place from mid-November to mid-February, during which the aquatic center will be closed. The city plans to inform the public through social media, email, and newsletters.
Efforts will be made to relocate as much programming as possible to the smaller Monroe Street Pool, though space limitations will prevent some programs from being accommodated. Plans to renovate the Monroe Street Pool will be brought to the City Council in September, with construction expected to start only after the Alga Norte project is complete.
