HOK commissioned Counsilman-Hunsaker to provide a swimming pool assessment for the Reily Center at Tulane University. The natatorium facility program includes an indoor stretch 50-meter competition pool with a single movable bulkhead, one 1-meter and one 3-meter springboard dive stands. The pool is utilized by multiple users including the Women’s Swim and Dive team, Club Water Polo, Synchronized Swim Team, and Lifeguard Training among a few others. Original pool construction began in 1987 and the facility opened for use in Fall of 1988. The pool shell is constructed of reinforced concrete supported by a helical pier system with an all tile interior finish. The pool utilizes a continuous stainless-steel perimeter overflow surge-weir gutter with a roll-out gutter configuration on the longitudinal sides and a recessed configuration on the pool ends. The depth profile for the competition pool varies from 4’-0” at the shallow end wall to 13’-0” in the diving well. Additional components to the recreational facility include exercise rooms for spinning and aerobics classes, basketball and racquetball courts, weightlifting and fitness equipment. Along with the Olympic-size indoor swimming pool, the facility has a small outdoor pool and sun deck.
The purpose of the assessment of the 50-meter indoor pool was to identify conditions that were substandard and identify a course of action regarding any necessary updates, repairs, or modifications to the pool and pool systems. Therefore, the importance of keeping the pool up-to-date with Louisiana Public Health and Sanitary Code, Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), federal law, and current industry standards is vital. Pool finish, bulkhead condition, air quality and pool water treatment systems were all found to be in poor condition. Remediation involving repair or replacement along with associated cost were detailed in the assessment report.
Operations Services
Counsilman-Hunsaker was contracted to provide maintenance and operational services for the Reily Student Recreation Center Natatorium. The project consisted of three phases: Staff training, development of a Maintenance Plan, and monthly records review. The training consisted of a National Swimming Pool Foundation® Certified Pool and Spa Operator (CPO®) Course for facility staff. The training also provided for a site-specific maintenance training of the facility’s equipment and operational needs. The second phase of the project was to develop a Maintenance Plan for the organization to assist staff in maintaining both the facility and its equipment for the life of the facility.
Additionally, Counsilman-Hunsaker monitors ongoing operations through monthly records oversight to offer specific recommendations. This process allows the facility management and operations staff to better understand their daily, weekly, and annual needs.