Monday, February 27, 2006


GETTING BACK INTO THE SWIM OF THINGS
Groundbreaking for $5.8 million Pool and Aquatic Center

Los Angeles - A new 5.8 million Northridge swimming pool, a City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks facility, officially broke ground Thursday. The existing pool will be demolished and replaced; the new facility will also have a separate activity pool with a water slide and play equipment. The new aquatic center will be one of the few pools in Los Angeles that will be accessible for both young children and handicapped people.

Funding comes from numerous sources, including Propositions K, 12, and 40, the City’s general fund, developer fees, and a seismic bond fund that was created after the 1994 Northridge earthquake. Jones & Madhavan Architecture Engineering of Thousand Oaks designed the facility, which will be built by Morillo Construction, Inc. of Pasadena. The Department of Public Works’ Bureau of Engineering will manage the project through its Recreational and Cultural Facilities Program.

The renovated aquatic center is expected to open in September 2007. The existing poolhouses will be replaced with more spacious changing areas designed to accomodate families. There will also be a first aid station, restrooms and changing rooms, exterior rinsing showers, office space, and more.



MEDIA CONTACTS:
Harvey Drut: (213) 928-9296, or cell, (323) 816-6711
Jane Kolb: (213) 928-9294, or cell, (323) 816-6712