West Shore Community College engaged Counsilman-Hunsaker to conduct a comprehensive conditions assessment of their indoor aquatic facility, which includes a six-lane, 25-yard lap pool and a spa. While the facility underwent significant renovations in 2007 - addressing ADA accessibility in the spa, partial replacement of accessible cast-iron piping, updated locker rooms, natatorium HVAC systems, and overhead lighting - the college identified critical concerns requiring professional evaluation.
The primary issue prompting the assessment was substantial water loss from the pool and the deteriorating condition of the piping at the stainless-steel gutter converter. College staff reported that the pool's make-up water line was continuously open to maintain water levels throughout the day. Site observations further revealed that much of the recirculation equipment had surpassed its expected lifespan, including the cartridge filtration system, which is uncommon for commercial use, and heavily corroded pumps.
Additionally, the college is reevaluating the facility’s purpose as usage patterns evolve, mainly since local competitions have shifted to newer facilities in Manistee and Ludington. This shift has already resulted in the removal of starting blocks, and the removal of the 0.75-meter diving board is under consideration.
Counsilman-Hunsaker was also tasked with providing a detailed opinion of probable construction costs for proposed recommendations, including installing a new dehumidification system for the natatorium. The assessment was supplemented with a study of the facility’s approximate operational costs to guide future decision-making.