Leaking Fundy Y pool may require extensive repairs

Due to water leakage the Fundy YMCA pool may require extensive repairs.

The pool, located at the Basinview Centre in Cornwallis Park, and an integral component of the Fundy Y, has been out of service for two months as staff from the Municipality of the County Annapolis investigate the source of recent water retention problems, the county said in a recent media release.

The facility is a vital lifestyle and wellness resource for the community with targeted programs developed for all ages, including seniors.

The swimming facility has been experiencing chronic leakage issues since mid-summer and in spite of a number of efforts to determine the cause; including a series of detailed incremental drainage measurements to seek leaks followed by drain system repairs and pressure testing, no effective cause or solution has been identified.

“Our first approach has been to troubleshoot and stop any minor systemic leak. However, it appears we may have to cut into the concrete structure,” said Stephen McInnis, the municipality’s director of municipal operations. “We will be finalizing the troubleshooting and pressure testing process in the next several days.”

Municipality officials are in contact with contractors in Halifax with expertise in structural problems to conduct more intensive testing to determine the remedial requirements and establish a plan to implement them.

“If a leak is not identified and stopped we will be cutting into the concrete to replace the required drainage components,” McInnis said. “This concrete work is more significant and will require a longer repair time.”

The Fundy Y operates the facility. The swimming pool, which opened in 2006, is a cornerstone component of the Fundy Y, but its operational mandate is wide and involves an extensive range of additional programs directed towards community lifestyle and wellness enhancement.

“The Fundy Y is a special place for our community to connect, build relationships, and lead a healthy, active lifestyle,” said Yvonne Smith, CEO, YMCA of South West Nova Scotia.

Acknowledging that the pool remediation remained a top priority for the facility, Smith added that staff was also looking at a variety of additional new land-based programs to supplement its existing offerings.

“Our complete focus at the moment is on provision of innovative ways to continue to meet our community service goals,” she said.

While located in Annapolis County, the Y is used by many Digby County residents as well.

Annapolis municipal and Fundy Y staff will continue to update the facility members and the community on its findings and progress on a regular basis.