Pathways Health Centre For Children is moving forward with the long-planned refurbishment of its 30-year-old therapeutic pool.
The project at the Murphy Road facility will get underway this summer and is expected to wrap up in late fall.
Acapulco Pools Ltd. of Kitchener has been selected as the general contractor following a public tender process.
Planned work includes mechanical and electrical upgrades, removal and replacement of pool tiles and grout, replacement of the pool deck and dressing room flooring, and a pool repaint.
The pool is used by over 800 children and young adults with disabilities every year and is a crucial part of Pathways’ rehabilitation and recreational therapy processes.
In addition, over 10,000 community members of all ages enjoy the pool annually through unique initiatives such as senior rehabilitation programs, community swim lessons, and parents and tot programs.
So far, the organization's fundraising campaign launched in November 2018, has generated $1.5 million of the $1.6 million goal.
Executive Director Alison Morrison said they're still pushing to raise the last $100,000.
"We've been so grateful for individuals, sometimes their piggy banks have been brought to us, right through to service clubs, organizations, foundations and grants. It's been a very successful campaign but we do need that final push to get us to $1.6 million."
Funds had been raised previously to reopen the pool in September 2018 following a leak, but the repairs at that time were only a short-term solution.
Those wishing to donate to the campaign can visit PathwaysCentre.org for further information.