Crystal Beach Swimming Pool Project Delayed

Severe Structure Damage Found

Madison, Indiana (May 9, 2022) – The City of Madison announced today the delay of the Crystal Beach Swimming Pool Project. Initially announced in 2017 as part of the Stellar Plan, the project has been delayed due to severe structural damage to the pool's retaining wall and filter system, which was not discovered until after the pool liner was removed.

In 2017, the city announced plans to renovate the Crystal Beach pool house. The initial plans included renovations to the first and second floors of the pool house to ensure accessibility to all, an elevator and HVAC system, updates to the electrical and plumbing systems, and the creation of an event space on the second floor.

In 2020, the city hired a consultant to perform a swimming pool audit. During this audit, it was identified that the pool liner that was installed in 2006 needed to be replaced as it had come to the end of its life cycle. With the pool liner at the end of its useful life, the city worked with the Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) to expand the project scope to make much needed repairs to the pool, pool deck, concession stand, fencing, and drainage. 

In the spring of 2021, the city opened the project to accept construction bids and awarded the project to the Poole Group in May. After the closing of the pool for the 2021 season, the city prepared the pool for construction, the Poole Group began ordering supplies, and on-site construction began in October. In January of 2022, the liner was removed, revealing significant structural damage beyond what was anticipated showing evidence that there has been serious deterioration to the 1938 structure. At this time, the filtration lines were also tested and failed.

"It is evident that we, like many other cities across the state, have not been able to make adequate investments in our park assets over a long period of time. The project has been impacted by supply chain issues, higher construction costs, and now structural issues beyond the original scope. The city recognizes the importance of preserving this iconic structure and making this facility available for future generations to enjoy. However, safety must be a priority as we work toward extending the life of the pool and making the pool house available for year-round use.  Over the next few months, we will put an action plan together to prepare for the next swimming season," said Mayor Bob Courtney.

Renovations of the pool house will continue through summer and the pool house is expected to open by fall of 2022. Once open, this space will be available to rent for catered events, birthday parties, small conferences, and much more. The swimming pool will reopen in May of 2023. Those wishing to enjoy swimming this season can visit Clifty Falls State Park Pool, Switzerland County YMCA, Carroll County Pool, North Vernon Swimming Pool, or Versailles State Park Pool.

The Crystal Beach Pool Update can be found here.

The Pool Summary can be found here.