YWCA Pool Updates
June 4, 2025
Dear Health and Wellness Members,
Here are the pool renovation updates for the month of June:
A construction manager has been hired.
The next step is to have a design team meeting to come up with a design, timeline and budget estimates. The design team includes:
Structural Engineer
HVAC Engineer
Pool Engineer and
Construction Manager
The timing of this renovation will likely be impacted by tariffs and the changing costs of construction material, including steel.
We are moving forward with all scheduled work and have received two generous donations to help get the project started. We have raised close to $940,000 and are working to raise more to be prepared for the total cost of the project.
See below for the timeline as we know it, and stay tuned for monthly updates.
Phase 1: Assessment- COMPLETE
We have completed the assessment of the ceiling, and have a final report (complete with laboratory testing results) and the recommendation to replace the ceiling.
Phase 2: Ceiling Replacement
With a ceiling replacement, we have more elements to plan. All aspects of the renovation will be timed to find the soonest open date. This phase will involve removing the ceiling and steel beams using a large crane. There are several options to consider for ceiling replacement, so the construction manager will help us design the new pool, and source materials and contractors. We will share updated phase timelines as soon as we know them.
Phase 3: Resurfacing and Additional Repairs
The pool resurfacing will likely be planned in multiple parts, based on the need to remove the current pool surface before the new ceiling is installed and delay the installation of the new pool surface and drain until the new ceiling is in place.
May 5, 2025
Subject: Pool renovations planning as of May 2025
Dear Health and Wellness Members,
Here are the brief updates we have on the pool renovations project this month as things continue to move forward.
Given the complexity of the ceiling replacement and pool resurfacing we are working to secure a project manager and anticipate that contractor in place this week
A project or construction manager will help us estimate the timeline for completion, keep track of costs and work with the various contractors completing the work.
The timing of this renovation is likely to be impacted by tariffs and the changing costs of construction material including steel
We are moving forward with all scheduled work and have received two generous donations to help get the project started so there will be no delay to raise funds
See below for the timeline as we know it. Stay tuned for monthly updates.
Phase 1: Assessment- COMPLETE
We have completed the assessment of the ceiling and have a report complete with laboratory testing results and the recommendation to replace the ceiling.
Phase 2: Ceiling Replacement
With a ceiling replacement, we have more elements to plan, so all aspects of the renovation will be timed to find the soonest open date. This phase will involve removing the ceiling and steel beams using a large crane. There are several options for replacement, and a contracted project manager can help us source materials and contractors for the best options. We will share updated phase timelines as soon as we know them.
Phase 3: Resurfacing and Additional Repairs
The timing of the pool resurfacing may need to be planned in multiple parts based on the need to take out the pool surface before the ceiling is installed and delay the installation of the new pool surface and drain once the new ceiling is in place.
April 1, 2025
Subject: Pool Renovation Update: Updated Path Forward
Dear Health and Wellness Members,
As we let you know in the last update, the assessment of the pool ceiling showed more extensive damage than anticipated. Understanding our options for the next steps has taken some time. We have had numerous meetings with the engineers and building experts who have looked at all of the options available to repair or replace the pool ceiling. While we don’t have a finalized plan at this point, it does look like the best option for both longevity and safety is to completely replace the pool ceiling. This update requires us to change the overall plan for the pool renovation project and phases to share more accurate information. We will update this plan with more details as we know more.
Below you will find updated phases of this renovation to reflect the information we know at this time. Rest assured we are still moving forward with all aspects of this project due to the demand and importance of a pool centered on racial equity in Asheville in our community.
Below is the updated timeline as we know it as of March 31, 2025
Phase 1: Assessment- COMPLETE
Starting December 16, scaffolding will go up to allow Terracon, our contractor, to assess the ceiling and test the composition of the cement. This process, including laboratory testing, is expected to take about two months and will define the timeline for the rest of the repair work. This is a crucial step, and while it requires time, it’s essential that the assessment be thorough.
When we have the final laboratory results of the cement samples, the engineers will present their recommendations for the repair or replacement of the ceiling along with a budget and timeline.
UPDATE: We have completed the assessment of the ceiling and have a report complete with laboratory testing results. We will be reviewing the options and budget for ceiling replacement.
Phase 2: Ceiling Repair Replacement
Pending the results of Phase 1, ceiling repairs are estimated to take 6-8 weeks.
UPDATE: With a likely ceiling replacement, we know this phase will take longer than repairs. There are now more elements to plan so all aspects of the renovation are timed to find the soonest open date. We will share updated phase timelines as soon as we know them.
Phase 3: Resurfacing and Additional Repairs
Once the ceiling repairs are completed, we will move to resurfacing the pool, addressing the drain requirements that changed this year, and completing other critical updates. These steps are designed to minimize future closures and ensure a smooth reopening with a stronger facility.
UPDATE: The timing of the pool resurfacing may need to be planned in multiple parts based on the need to take out the pool surface before the ceiling is installed and delay the installation of the new pool surface and drain once the new ceiling is in place.
We recognize the impact this closure has had on your experience and are deeply grateful for your patience and continued support. Your memberships have been vital in helping us launch this renovation, and we are committed to keeping you updated every step of the way. Look for updates in our weekly member newsletter and at the front desk of our building.
February 25, 2025
Subject: Pool Renovation Update: Still moving forward
Dear Health and Wellness Members,
We have been working with the contracted pool engineers on phase 1 of the pool renovation project to assess the state of the pool ceiling. While we do not yet have the final laboratory results of the cement samples or the final assessment, we want to let you know why this phase has taken longer than anticipated.
After the engineers' initial assessment, they compiled a report that showed the state of the cement in the ceiling was worse than we anticipated.
We have learned that there is a laboratory testing backlog and we are in line. Although the laboratory testing was estimated to be 6 weeks we will not have test results until after the middle of March.
Until the final tests are completed, we won’t have a precise estimate for the total project cost. However, based on what we’ve learned so far, we anticipate the cost will be approximately twice the original estimate.
We know that this renovation is essential to ensuring the safety and longevity of our historic pool. We are fully committed to doing it right creating a long-lasting facility that will continue to serve our community for years to come.
Our staff, board, and community remain steadfast in our commitment to seeing this project through, despite the challenges along the way. We are moving forward with determination, ensuring that every step is taken with care and precision.
We are excited about what’s ahead and look forward to sharing more progress with you. Below, you’ll find timeline updates in red, and we are committed to continuing to keep you informed as we gain more clarity on the next steps. Look for monthly updates in the member newsletter.
Thank you for your patience and support as we work to create a stronger, safer, and revitalized pool for our community!
Below is the updated timeline as we know it as of February 25, 2025.
Phase 1: Assessment
Starting December 16, scaffolding will go up to allow Terracon, our contractor, to assess the ceiling and test the composition of the cement. This process, including laboratory testing, is expected to take about two months and will define the timeline for the rest of the repair work. This is a crucial step, and while it requires time, it’s essential that the assessment be thorough.
When we have the final laboratory results of the cement samples, the engineers will present their recommendations for the repair or replacement of the ceiling along with a budget and timeline.
Phase 2: Ceiling Repair
Pending the results of Phase 1, ceiling repairs are estimated to take 6-8 weeks. We do not have any estimates at this time but will share as soon as we know them.
Phase 3: Resurfacing and Additional Repairs
Once the ceiling repairs are completed, we’ll move to resurfacing the pool, addressing the drain requirements that changed this year, and completing other critical updates. These steps are designed to minimize future closures and ensure a smooth reopening with a stronger facility.
We recognize the impact this closure has had on your experience and are deeply grateful for your patience and continued support. Your memberships have been vital in helping us launch this renovation, and we are committed to keeping you updated every step of the way.
December 15, 2025
Subject: Pool Renovation Update: A Strong Start to a Big Project
Dear Health and Wellness Members,
We are excited to update you on the progress of our pool renovation project! After many months of planning, fundraising, and collaborating with contractors, the first phase of work is officially beginning. Although we did experience a delay post-Hurricane Helene we are excited to continue moving this project forward. This renovation is critical to ensuring the safety and longevity of our 50-year-old pool, and we are committed to doing it right.
Phase 1: Assessment
Starting December 16, scaffolding will go up to allow Terracon, our contractor, to assess the ceiling and test the composition of the cement. This process, including laboratory testing, is expected to take about two months and will define the timeline for the rest of the repair work. This is a crucial step, and while it requires time, it’s essential that the assessment be thorough.
Phase 2: Ceiling Repair
Pending the results of Phase 1, ceiling repairs are estimated to take 6-8 weeks.
Phase 3: Resurfacing and Additional Repairs
Once the ceiling repairs are completed, we’ll move to resurfacing the pool, addressing the drain requirements that changed this year, and completing other critical updates. These steps are designed to minimize future closures and ensure a smooth reopening with a stronger facility.
We recognize the impact this closure has had on your experience and are deeply grateful for your patience and continued support. Your memberships have been vital in helping us launch this renovation, and we are committed to keeping you updated every step of the way.
Thank you for being a part of this exciting chapter as we work towards a spring/summer reopening a stronger, safer, and revitalized pool that will serve our community for years to come.
