Audit: Rec Center pools need full replacement in 5–10 years; repairs ~$3.0M

A newly posted facility audit of the Community Recreation Center’s five indoor bodies of water (lap, leisure, therapy, spa and splash pools) concludes many components don’t meet current code or industry standards — including NSF/Teton Health District code skimmer requirements, VGB suction-entrapment protections and ADA accessibility items — and warns the 1994-era pools are nearing the end of their service life. The consultant, Counsilman-Hunsaker, says the pools should be “wholly replaced within the next 5 to 10 years” rather than relying on ongoing minor repairs. ([Board/Commission Name] Aquatic Facilities Assessment Packet](/documents/01KNXJ239VESSR4E8WSSP0MR2A))

In the audit’s executive summary, the recommended replacement timelines vary by pool: leisure and therapy pools within about 5–10 years, the lap pool within 10–15 years, and the spa within 10–15 years (citing code deficiencies), with the splash pool recommended for renovation within about 5–10 years. The mechanical systems are described as in “poor” condition, with automation problems and some dysfunctional chemical-feed units and pumps. ([Board/Commission Name] Aquatic Facilities Assessment Packet](/documents/01KNXJ239VESSR4E8WSSP0MR2A))

On costs, the report provides an “opinion of probable construction cost” for aquatics-only, like-for-like replacement work (excluding other trades like architectural/mechanical/plumbing): about $2.332 million before inflation and general contractor mark-up, and about $3.032 million after adding a 30% contingency. The cost tables also include near-term repair/keep-running items — for example, subtotals listed for the therapy pool ($156,000), spa ($82,000) and splash pool/waterslide ($235,000) — while emphasizing those repairs would not bring the facility into full code compliance. ([Board/Commission Name] Aquatic Facilities Assessment Packet](/documents/01KNXJ239VESSR4E8WSSP0MR2A))