Friday, September 27, 2013

Pool adds UV filtration, locker rooms improve and spin room complete

A few areas of the DRC are still under construction and major progress is being made daily.  One of the improvements happening in the pool area is not visible to most visitors, but will be a huge benefit to anyone using the indoor pool.

The DRC is in the process of added a UV Filtration System, which will offer many benefits including:
  • A safer and more pleasant water environment
  • Clear, bright and sparkling water
  • Fresh, clean air with significantly reduced chlorine smell
  • Eliminates ‘Red Eye’ and skin irritations by reducing chloramines
How does a UV filtration system work?
UV filtration is housed in the pool's filter room and consists of a high powered ultra violet light encased in a compartment that pool water passes through (see photo of the DRC's new filtration device below). As the water flows through this UV compartment, it is bombarded with a high intensity germicidal ultraviolet ray that destroys waterborne pathogens, including algae, bacteria, cysts, and viruses. The highly concentrated electromagnetic energy destroys organic matter and eliminates the formation of dangerous chlorine by-products called chloramines that commonly lead to red, stinging eyes, skin irritations, asthma and allergies. In addition to the health issues that can be caused by chloramines, pool area equipment also disintegrates when subject to prolonged chloramine exposure, as is typical in an indoor pool environment. 


The DRC's UV Filtration Device



The DRC's UV filtration system control panel

Will the DRC indoor pool still use chlorine with the addition of the UV filtration system?
Yes, chlorine will still be used, but a dramatically reduced amount.  The chlorine smell that is associated with indoor pools will be significantly reduced with the addition of the UV filtration system.

The DRC feels very confident that the new UV filtration system will be a great addition to the indoor pool and out pool patrons will enjoy the improved air and water quality.

For those who utilize the pool area there will be many other noticeable improvements, including a new desk area for swim instructors and lifeguards.


Many have noticed and commented that they really like the new exterior windows that have been installed in the pool area.  The windows allow more natural lighting into the pool and an added benefit of a natural view of the outdoors for those using the fitness center.

view from the fitness center

One of the most frequent suggestions made by fitness center and track users was the need for a second level restroom.  The renovation project was able to construct new restrooms on the second floor, which are now open.

New hands free sinks located in the second level restrooms

On the first level of the DRC the locker rooms are getting their major overhaul.  From new tile to new lockers, the locker rooms will be just as impressive as the other completed areas of the DRC.




For those who prefer a good workout on a spin bike, you have probably already enjoyed the improved spin room, with new ceiling fans, an 80" flat screen TV, new sound system and improved lighting.



The remodel project is still on schedule and the locker rooms and pool are anticipated to be completed by October 14th.

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

The end is near - September construction update

The Derby Recreation Center renovation continues and the progress is unveiling itself one room at a time.

 
 
 
The pool continues to undergo extensive upgrades.  As seen in the photo above, a new drop ceiling will support clouds (panels that assist with acoustics) and new lighting.
 
An new addition being installed that will never be seen by pool patrons is a UV water filtration system.  This UV system removes chloramines from the air in the pool area and is the ultimate purification process for pool water.
 
The scheduled date for the pool to be re-filled is October 7th , with the pool opening for public use on October 14th.
 

Exterior windows of the pool are also being completely replaced with double pane solar ban glazed windows.  This high efficiency glass will have a bronze tint from the outside but still have some ability to see through.



 
The locker rooms are getting a major facelift, with new wall tile, counters and new flooring. The locker rooms are scheduled to be reopened at the same time as the indoor pool, October 14th.
 
While the locker rooms on the first floor are closed, the newly added restroom on the second floor is now open and ready for use.  This has been a long time request from patrons of the fitness center and walking track.  Request granted!
 
 
In the hallway near the locker rooms, the Spin Room is also completed and bikes have been returned to the DRC from the OAC where they had been temporarily located.  At the moment, access to the Spin Room is a bit difficult, but as we know, construction is temporary and will be out of the way soon.
 


The concrete work at the entrance of the DRC looks flawless the addition of landscaping will be a welcome splash of nature and color.  The landscaping and irrigation should be in place by mid October.
 


As always, we appreciate your patience through the mess that construction makes.  We know that this temporary inconvenience will be worth the final results!