‘If you build it, people will come’: Swim Nova Scotia pitches new pool for Annapolis Valley

Swim Nova Scotia is making a strong push for the construction of a new aquatic facility in the Annapolis Valley, following the announcement of the permanent closure of Acadia University’s pool. The organization has presented its proposal to the Municipality of the County of Kings and the Town of Wolfville, emphasizing the importance of having a dedicated aquatic facility in the region.

Bette El-Hawary, the executive director of Swim Nova Scotia, highlighted the numerous benefits of having an aquatic facility, not just for the sport of swimming but also for the broader community. The closure of Acadia’s pool, which has been a hub for community programs and competitive teams for six decades, has left a significant void that needs to be addressed.

Swim Nova Scotia is advocating for a new facility that ideally includes a 50-metre pool with eight lanes, although a 25-metre pool would also be acceptable. The estimated cost for such a facility ranges from $14 million to $24 million. El-Hawary pointed out successful aquatic facilities in other regions, such as Uxbridge, Ont., and Boise, Idaho, which could serve as models for the Annapolis Valley project.

The organization is working on a feasibility study to present to local governments later this year, with the goal of securing funding from provincial and federal sources. El-Hawary emphasized that there is a growing demand for aquatic facilities in Nova Scotia, given the province’s increasing population. She assured council members that investing in a new aquatic facility would be a worthwhile endeavor, as it would be well-utilized by the community.

Councilor Everett MacPherson expressed support for the idea of a new aquatic facility but emphasized the need for assurances that the investment would be justified. Swim Nova Scotia is confident that the demand for such a facility exists and is optimistic about the potential for collaboration with community groups and health agencies to ensure its success.

In conclusion, Swim Nova Scotia is determined to see the construction of a new aquatic facility in the Annapolis Valley, believing that “if you build it, people will come.” The organization’s efforts to educate and garner support from local governments highlight the importance of providing accessible and modern facilities for both sports and community use.