Architectural Renderings and Floor Plan Unveiled for Springfield Community Pool

JULY 17, 2017 BY ZIAD ANDREW SHEHADY

The Township of Springfield has retained the services of Cornerstone Architectural Group and M. Disko Associates for architectural and engineering design of a renovated pool building.  The existing building is approximately 4,500 sq. ft. and over 50 years old.  Built in 1963, it is a one-story, seasonal building with no heat or natural ventilation.  Residents have expressed concerns about its suitability and adequacy.  In response, the Township Committee commissioned a preliminary design and budget estimate for two options in 2015.  In 2016, the Township Committee authorized an independent Financial Feasibility Review.  The study concluded, “the Township of Springfield is adequately positioned, both from a marketing standpoint and from a strong financial foundation, to undertake capital improvements to the municipal pool complex in the $2 – $3 million range.”  In 2017, the Township Committee selected a preliminary design for the project, and voted unanimously to issue bonds so that the project could begin.  The pool is structured as a utility separate from the Township; the bonds are paid through revenue generated by the pool and not through property taxes.  With the selected design, the building will undergo an expansion and renovation.  Design was based on weekly meetings with a sub-committee of the Township Committee, the Administrator, the Assistant Engineer, the Recreation Director and Assistant Recreation Director.  The building reflects a beach club design with an impressive front entrance and see thru design concept.  Additional items that were incorporated include a family restroom, a fitness center, year‐round use for a multi‐purpose room and kitchen, a pitched roof with architectural grade shingles, new architectural grade exterior materials, new interior finishes, and new mechanical, plumbing & electrical renovations.  The building nearly doubles in square feet and to handle the campers in inclement weather, there will be nearly 2,000 additional sheltered square feet.  Additional water features for the pool grounds are also in the design phase.  Construction on the project is estimated to start on September 5, 2017 and is tentatively scheduled to be completed by May 25, 2018.  A public notice to bidders was advertised on July 6, 2017.  Bids will be opened on August 2, 2017.  A contract is scheduled to be awarded on August 15, 2017.