The Springhill Board of Aldermen met Monday night, voting not to open two aging swimming pools for use this summer.
The two swimming pools are in poor condition and should not be open to public use, according to a report by engineer John French. French’s findings included numerous safety hazards such as decking and filtration problems and security and liability issues.
The City of Springhill is currently constructing a multi-million dollar one-site recreation complex, having poured more than $2 million into the project to date. Upon completion, the Springhill Recreation Complex will feature baseball, softball, soccer and football fields, as well as a state-of-the-art splash pad and playground.
Steps have been taken towards closing the two pools for some time, however complaints only surfaced recently over the closure of the Westside pool, which Alderwoman D. Nicole Frazier says is an important part of Springhill’s black community.
The Westside pool was constructed in 1952 and is in disrepair, according to French’s findings. There are plumbing problems, electrical issues, non-functioning drains and a questionable chlorination system, amongst other issues.
Issues at the Eastside pool are almost identical and neither is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.