Those hoping to take a swim at the Bear Creek Outdoor Pool will likely have to wait until at least the middle of August.
The City of Grande Prairie says a lack of consistently dry weather is the culprit, as consultation crews are struggling to apply multiple layers the pool basin coating.
“We hear the community and know there is an eagerness to visit the outdoor pool,” says Director of Corporate Services Susan Walker. “The City is committed to completing a pool that will serve the community for decades to come, this means taking all measures to ensure a quality product.”
The re-opening was delayed by similar circumstances last year, as cooler than average temperatures were to blame for halting progress.
Officials say that to successfully coat the pool basin the product must be applied in a dry period with temperatures above 10 degrees Celsius. A minimum of two days drying is also required between each coat.
The city says if the weather permits, the project team will try to put on the needed coats and then have the pool begin a commissioning process, which would take roughly two days. If that is successful, an additional two weeks would be used for water testing to ensure health department regulations are met.
Roger Field from Field Engineering & Associates Ltd. says he understands the frustration felt by residents but believes they are at the mercy of mother nature.
“As prime consultants on the outdoor pool renovation, we recognize the importance of the swimming pool to the citizens of Grande Prairie and apologize for this delay.”
The city adds despite the delays, the pool project remains within the established budget of $5,000,000.
The pool was originally built in 1962 but was closed in 2013 when a large crack was noticed in the structure.