Hello, friends of Bedford! Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting with Mike Callahan, the dynamic director of our Parks and Recreation Department, for an enlightening conversation about the impressive makeover of our much-loved municipal pool building in 2023.
Nestled within the friendly confines of our city, the Bedford municipal pool has been a favorite community landmark since the late 1960s. Serving as a summer retreat and recreational hub for Bedford families and visitors alike, the pool has witnessed countless joyous splashes, exuberant laughter, and precious memories over the decades.
This year, our cherished pool building underwent a significant transformation, aimed at enhancing visitor experience and modernizing facilities. Earlier, post check-in, swimmers had to navigate through locker rooms to reach the pool, but that’s no longer the case. In the revamped design, you check in at the front and then proceed directly through an airy breezeway, a change that drastically improves guest flow. Additionally, the introduction of two check-in windows ensures a faster, smoother, and more efficient entry process.
Within the pool building, several thoughtful additions have been made. These include a dedicated office for the pool manager, a separate room for our hardworking pool staff, and family-friendly restrooms, all contributing to a more organized and accommodating environment. Gone are the locker room showers, replaced now by fresh outdoor showers on the pool deck. The old snack bar has been upgraded with conveniently placed vending machines in the entrance, offering a quick grab-and-go snack option for those pool-side hunger pangs.
This extensive makeover also incorporated necessary updates to the building’s infrastructure. The electrical wiring throughout the facility has been completely redone, and remote-viewable security cameras are being installed, enhancing safety measures for all visitors.
It’s noteworthy that this remarkable transformation, executed by Lakeland Construction, came to life without burdening local taxpayers. The project, costing around $775,000, was funded entirely through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).
The final additions to the revamped pool complex, such as welcoming signage and a canopy, are currently being installed. Once these finishing touches are in place, there will be a community-wide, celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony. So, Bedford folks, gear up for a reinvigorated swimming season at our freshly upgraded municipal pool. It’s the same beloved gathering place, but with an exciting new look and feel!
