If you passed by the Brian Bent Memorial Aquatics Complex (BBMAC) this summer, you noticed the construction teams spearheading an extensive pool restoration. At the end of July, our world-famous pool closed its doors to undergo the biggest renovation since the initial construction.
BBMAC started exploring options for restoration when the overflow gutters (cantilevers) started to crack. Other areas of the pool were starting to show signs of wear and tear as well. Upon researching options and exploring pool updates, the pool was faced with the option of doing mismatched patchwork to updated isolated areas or a complete restoration of the deck.
The Coronado Unified School District (CUSD) and BBMAC made the decision to undergo the complete renovation of the pool deck over patchwork fixes. This required gutting the existing deck and pool flooring, pouring new concrete, and laying new tile. During the process, inspectors discovered that other components in the initial construction were not done correctly. Had the pool not moved forward with the complete renovation, they would have run into several challenges and delays in the process.
California Commercial Pools completed the construction. They used top of the line methods and craftsmanship, ensuring that the pool will not need a similar update for decades to come. They also equipped the pool with energy efficient LED lighting. The lighting alone will pay for itself in less than 2.4 years using at least 75% less energy and lasting 25 times longer than incandescent lighting, adding to the profitability of the pool complex.
The construction was completed on schedule and BBMAC opened their doors on November 1st. Completing the renovations on time was essential as Pacific Southwestern Grommet Zone Leagues were held at BBMAC on Sunday, November 1st.
Our local teams were also very excited to return to BBMAC for their practices. The Coronado Navy Swim Association, Coronado Aquatics Club, and local water polo teams were utilizing the Community Center to train during the construction. The CHS Islander Water Polo team celebrated their return to the BBMAC by beating La Jolla last week.
This complete overhaul of the deck and pool flooring was essential to set the pool up for future success.
Earlier this year the Coronado Tourism Improvement District invested a generous $10,000 marketing grant into the pool to further the economic impact the aquatics complex has created through hosting college and elite club swimming teams during the slow tourism season.
During the last four years the pool has been hosting college swim teams. These teams spend close to $500K in the City of Coronado during the winter and spring months. This has provided a substantial residual economic impact trickling throughout all of Coronado. With the state of the art pool now completely renovated, BBMAC hopes to attract even more Olympic and world-class elite teams to the facility.
More info: http://bbmac.org/
