When the Cowan Recreation Centre opens later this year, swimmers will be diving into something new. The facility at RBJ Schlegel Park will feature the first public stainless steel swimming pools in the City of Kitchener and the Region of Waterloo. The recreation centre will include an eight-lane, 25-metre lap pool, along with a program pool for lessons and other aquatic activities. City officials said the additional aquatic space will help meet growing demand for swim programming. “That will actually allow us to have 48,000 more swim class spots for residents of the City of Kitchener and beyond,” Mayor Berry Vrbanovic said during a tour of the facility on Wednesday. Unlike traditional concrete pools, stainless steel pools are designed to require less maintenance while offering environmental benefits. “It initially may feel a little differently when you first step into the pool. Overall, it provides for a better user experience and less downtime,” Vrbanovic explained. “It’s actually the more sustainable choice.” The city said the durable design requires fewer chemicals, retains heat more effectively and reduces the need to drain the pools for maintenance. “There’s less chemicals that are required. It holds the temperature better and there’s less potential for operational impacts,” Vrbanovic said. If repairs are needed, they can often be completed without emptying the pool. “If there was ever anything that needed to be adjusted on the stainless steel, it’s welding that can happen underwater,” he said. Construction on the Cowan Recreation Centre remains on schedule and within budget according to the city. According to Vrbanovic, $174 million was slated for the entire project. An official opening date has not yet been announced, but the City of Kitchener expects to welcome the public before the end of the year.
