After what seemed like endless delays, setbacks, unexpected breakdowns and unforeseen difficulties, the Rimbey Aquatic Centre is open and ready for business.
The pool, scheduled for opening May 25, was held up due to issues with a water sample.
“The water tests results were unsatisfactory,” said recreation director Rick Kreklewich. “We had to add additional chlorine to the water and then wait for another sample. We took a sample on Saturday and found out Monday we were able to open.”
Kreklewich received notification around 11:30 a.m. Monday, so the schools were notified at lunch time students could go for a swim later that day if they were ready to brave the weather, which was cool and windy.
As it turned out, there were about 20 swimmers waiting for the doors to open at 5 p.m. and later, at the Value Drug Mart sponsored free swim, about 70 people tested out the new waters.
“It was good, the hot tub was full and there was lots of people,” said Kreklewich.
Water samples still need to be given the go-ahead at the spray park and the pump for one hot tub needs to be replaced, but Kreklewich expects both hot tubs and the spray park to be opened fairly soon.
Pool manager Kira More said things have gone fairly smoothly since the pool opened.
“We’re just working through the kinks. People have been showing up and they seem to be appreciative and enjoying our new facility.”
The Rimbey Aquatic Centre pool offers an early bird lane swim, school swim, parent/tot swim, aquafit, adult and public and family swims as well as a teen swim on Friday nights and a free swim Mondays.
The pool employs eight lifeguards, two of whom are on duty at all times.
For rates, theme swims and other program information check out www.rimbey.com
The grand opening of the Rimbey Aquatic Centre and Spray Park is scheduled for June 15 at 1:30 p.m.
By Treena Mielke