Volunteers prepare Plains Pool for opening

Approximately 20 volunteers gathered at the Plains swimming pool this past week to complete the final seam-sealing project in preparation for a tentative opening date of June 26.

Volunteers included four members of the Plains Community Ambulance, four firefighters from the Plains City Fire Department, three employees from Black Mountain Stone, and several local residents. Cori Kerner of the Plains Public Works Department coordinated the effort, assisted by Parks and Recreation Committee member Rebecca Fields, owner of Warrior Fitness.

Applying the sealant was a time-sensitive process that required extensive mixing and quick application before the material hardened in the applicators. Repairs to the pool's seams were necessary to address years of deterioration and help reduce the water loss that has plagued the facility in recent seasons.

Additional improvements are also planned. The black lane lines on the pool floor will be repainted this year, while the white sections of the pool are scheduled to be repainted next year. Future projects will also include staining the wooden shingles and repairing the E.L. Johnson Memorial Pool sign.

The kiddie pool is receiving improvements as well, including a fresh coat of paint. Kerner said organizers hope to have the kiddie pool open by June 19.

Five lifeguards from last year's staff will return this season, joined by seven new lifeguards who are completing their training. A meet-and-greet event is scheduled for June 25, giving parents an opportunity to register their children for swimming lessons before the pool officially opens the following day.

    Plains City Fire Chief Anthony Young and Rebecca Fields help to seal leaky seams at the Plains Pool. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
 Tracy Scott   

    Volunteer Greg Ericksen will have a reminder on his hands for many days of his time resealing the pool. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
 Tracy Scott