By City of Lethbridge media release

Henderson Pool Boasts Record Attendance & Operational Efficiency

Dec 4, 2016 | 8:34 AM

LETHBRIDGE – Operational efficiencies and record attendance at the upgraded Henderson Pool highlight some of the successes of the facility’s first season as shared with Council on November 28.

The doors opened to Henderson Pool on July 15, 2016 to an impressive crowd. Even with a slightly shortened season, the pool recorded an increase in attendance of nearly 30,000 over 2013 when it was last operating.

A total of 58,229 visitors enjoyed the outdoor pool, waterslides, climbing wall and spray park this summer. Initial estimates anticipated 45,000-50,000 visitors a year but numbers from the first season indicate the facility could see more than 70,000 people per season into the future​.

“We couldn’t be happier with the outcome of this facility and the enthusiasm of the community for the new and improved Henderson Pool,” says Mayor Chris Spearman. “This project came with its set of challenges but when you hear the community rave about it and see the sense of pride people have – that’s how you know it was worth the investment.”

In addition to good attendance, the pool is showing great operating efficiencies. Operating Henderson Pool this season cost $81,900 less than in 2013 and was $49,079 under the estimated 2016 budget.

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The PVC pool liner saves maintenance with no crack filling and painting required and eliminates water loss. In fact, over 20,000 cubic meters of water was saved from the 2013 season to the 2016 season. The new pool filtration system is also helping save costs by reducing water and chemical usage and decreasing maintenance costs.​

“Seeing these types of savings is wonderful but the full value of this facility to our community is immeasurable,” says Councillor Jeff Carlson. “We now have an affordable, family facility that is accessible to everyone and the envy of communities across the province.”

When designing the pool upgrades, all areas were made barrier free and accessible. This includes ramps from the change house to the pool deck, a zero depth entry into the main pool basin and all gender change rooms and washrooms. The project finished within 1 per cent of the total budget costs of $10.25 million.

Henderson Pool is operated by Recreation Excellence who worked diligently over the summer months to manage the pool crowds providing a safe and enjoyable visit for swimmers.

The facility is anticipated to reopen for the 2017 season in mid-June.