The City of South Bend commissioned the Counsilman-Hunsaker, TMP Architecture, and Frost Engineering to comprehensively assess the Potawatomi and Kennedy pool facilities. After the audit, a summary of key findings was presented to the Parks Board.
Potawatomi Pool originally opened in 1955 and the facility underwent a large renovation to the bathhouse and the addition of a waterslide in 2001. Much of the mechanical equipment was approximately 25 years old and beyond its expected life. And the combined lap and deep pool lose a significant amount of water each day, much of which is presumed to occur through deteriorated cast iron piping under the deck. But the primary issue analyzed was the structure and interior finish of the pools. They began to deteriorate in the early 2000s when a liner was installed which has since failed. The facility was able to continue operations until the underlying concrete and repaired liner sections were in significant disrepair.
The Kennedy Water Playground facility replaced an outdated 1950s pool in 2000. Since the facility opened, there have been multiple leaks in the buried piping that have required extensive repairs below the deck and primary play structure in the pool. Recommendations were provided for mechanical system repairs and feature replacement due to the number of years in service.
Additionally, the main drain covers were recommended for replacement at both facilities to maintain compliance with Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act compliance and additional accessibility means to meet ADA requirements. Finally, an opinion of the probable construction cost was provided for the recommended repairs.
