Crystal Pool — renovate or replace?

Re: “Renovate Crystal pool, don’t build new,” letter, July 20.

It is my feeling that the mayor and councillors of the City of Victoria delude themselves about the cost of replacing the Crystal Pool. The estimated cost of a retrofit is set at $41 million; to renovate, $57 million; and to replace, $69.4 million.

In the aftermath of the Teddy Waste Award for the Blue Bridge (yes, the project really did win that dubious award from the Canadian Taxpayers’ Federation), I think we wouldn’t be too far off base to double the replacement-cost estimate.

After all, Victoria is in a time of incredible expansion, and contractors are stretched to their limits. Both the time frame and the costs will no doubt increase if the project goes ahead.

And let’s not forget that the current Crystal Pool is architecturally notable — a design by Victoria’s prominent and renowned architect, John Di Castri — and honoured qualities of the original Crystal Pool. To recklessly tear down this fine example of mid-century architecture, that adds both depth and uniqueness to our beautiful city, undermines the work and vision of previous leaders.

It is my belief that we need to firmly hold on to the best of what we have. It’s solid, serviceable and sensible. Victoria has many more pressing issues that require funding — parking and housing being just two examples.

Bonnie Segger Victoria