Urbanna OKs layout for proposed pool

Mayor hopeful Memorial Day, 2023 opening target still possible

The Urbanna Town Council voted to approve the design and layout for Urbanna’s proposed new swimming pool during its Dec. 15 regular monthly meeting.

The layout includes a pavilion proposed by Urbanna Beautification Inc. (UBI). However, a sticking point is its location next to the pool and not located separately in Taber Park, UBI members indicated during the meeting.

Alternative locations were discussed, but there was no resolution to the dilemma.

The pool is the primary consideration of council since a contract to build it was ready to be signed, said outgoing Mayor Barbara Hartley. Time is of the essence if the pool is to be open by Memorial Day 2023, said Hartley. Construction will take about four months, she said.

Pool design

The pool will be six lanes by 25 meters and designed for competition. It will measure 72 by 42 feet. There will not be a diving area. It will be located along the same property line as the old pool but moved towards Rappahannock Avenue and about even with the existing playground. The pool’s utility building, concession stand and restrooms will be located at the end facing Rappahannock Avenue.

On Nov. 17, in a split vote council authorized a contract not to exceed $1.1 million for the pool. The proposed financing for the pool is as follows: withdraw $500,000 from the Taber Fund as a loan to be paid back. The Taber Fund has $1.3 million in it currently.

Additionally $200,000 would come from sales of “charter memberships,” $100,000 in donations, $200,000 in CARES (COVID-19 related grant) money, and a $100,000 loan. The town had $94,000 in a pool reserve which is being used for design and planning. There is the possibility of getting a reimbursement grant to pay for some of the pool.

On Oct. 13, with financing still in question, council voted unanimously to authorize the town staff to enter a pool construction contract, subject to review and approval by the town attorney.