By Conrad Dudderar
Staff Writer
Aquatic rock walls will replace diving boards at Yukon city pools.
The Yukon City Council, at its Jan. 17th meeting, approved reallocating $37,492 from the Parks & Recreation capital improvement account.
Funds will be used to make upgrades and repairs to the City of Yukon’s aquatic facilities.
Diving boards will be removed from the Kimbell Bay pool at Kimbell Park and City Splash pool at Yukon City Park.
A new feature will be the rock walls at the City of Yukon’s pools. Cost is some $14,000.
“We’re looking at ways to add in amenities, so we’re not taking out an amenity and not adding something in its place,” Yukon Parks & Recreation Director Ryan McClure said.
An outside aquatic firm recommended taking diving boards at both pools “out of service to meet current aquatic code recommendations,” McClure advised the council.
Aquatic climbing walls are touted as a safe, fun alternative to diving boards. They provide a unique, fun way for kids to learn about climbing and taking risks in a controlled environment.
Meanwhile, McClure outlined plans calling for concrete repairs to the splash pad water feature at Sunrise Park. Cost is about $8,700.
Maintenance updates at City pools will include new pool paint, main drains and backboards – routine items that must be replaced due to “useful life expiration,” McClure explained.
Funds also will be spent on lane line ropes, an actuator for an accessible chair lift, along with program and safety supplies.
YCC EXTERIOR REPAIRS
The $37,492 in Parks & Recreation capital funds had been earmarked to make exterior repairs to the Yukon Community Center.
“After future discussion with staff and contractors, these funds are not sufficient to cover the cost of our proposed exterior renovations,” McClure wrote in a memo to city council members.
The first-year YPR director will present a more detailed plan on YCC exterior updates during the council’s upcoming 2023-24 budget meetings.
The center is 50 years old this year, having opened in 1973.
