Spani Pool won’t reopen until next summer.
And, when it does, it’ll have a new name: Mundy Park Pool.
Today, July 11, the city issued a statement about its disappointment with the construction, chain supply and provincial permitting delays that have pushed the opening date of the renovated pool to the summer of 2025.
The $32-million reboot of the 52-year-old outdoor pool, which was originally scheduled to open in 2023, will see the existing tank stay the same size — with eight 25-metre swim lanes, a dive tank and a new accessible ramp as well as:
- a new leisure pool with a shallow beach entry, splash area, lazy river and 1.2-metre deep end
- a new warming pool
- expanded deck spaces for spectator seating, a lawn area for lounging and a concession
- accessible universal change rooms, including gendered and non-gendered washrooms, showers and lockers
- universal washrooms open year-round for Mundy Park visitors
- a multipurpose room for year-round workshops, training, certification courses and recreational programming
- an improved drop-off and pick-up area
Once open next year, the city hopes the Hillcrest Street pool will generate 16,000 drop-in visits and 2,250 swimming lesson participants in 360 classes and certification courses each season.
Lanny Englund, Coquitlam’s general manager of parks, recreation, culture and facilities, told the Tri-City News on Thursday that the Coquitlam Sharks Aquatic Club, which typically starts its season at Spani Pool in May, has moved again to Eagle Ridge Pool and other sites.
New name
When Spani Pool reopens, it will be called the Mundy Park Pool to reflect its location and help with wayfinding.
Englund said the city’s 2007 naming policy allows for rebranding when a new civic facility is built or updated.
Spani Pool is named after a late residential developer in Coquitlam and a community volunteer “and the pool has always been called that […] I expect there will be some reaction to the name change.”
The move to a geographical title, he said, follows the recently updated Town Centre Park Community Centre (formerly the Innovation Centre, next to the Evergreen Cultural Centre) and Burke Mountain parks, which are named after streets.
Still, Englund said council has the ability in its policy to dedicate a city building after a community hero.
In Burnaby on Saturday, July 13, that municipality will open the Sohen Gill Sports Box in Confederation Park, a decision supported by the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame.
Summer programs
To make up for the lack of Spani Pool fun this summer, the City of Coquitlam is offering free- and low-cost activities:
- free drop-in entry at Eagle Ridge Outdoor Pool (2689 Guildford Way)
- $10 Summer Child and Youth Pass (typically $25; current pass holders will be automatically credited $15)
- until Aug. 3, increased access for Coquitlam residents at the YMCA (555 Emerson St.)
- water play pop-ups at Coquitlam parks
đŸ“£ SOUND OFF: What do you think of the name change from Spani Pool to Mundy Park Pool? Send us your comments for online publication via [email protected].
