Ridgewood
February 4, 2009 THE VILLADOM TIMES II • Page 3
Graydon Pool complex reconstruction sparks controversy
by John Koster Proposed plans for a $13.9 million comprehensive reconstruction of the Graydon Pool complex split those members of the community who spoke last week right down the middle, with most members of the Ridgewood Village Council clearly not eager to tackle a project of that magnitude – and some not eager to destroy the lake-like appearance of the existing pool. Members of the volunteer study group, including Melinda Cronk, Jane Morales, and Walter Vester, were praised for their hard work as they officially unveiled their proposal at last week’s council work session. Many members of the standing-room-only crowd applauded warmly as the advocates of a four-pool complex to better serve Ridgewood’s younger swimmers made their case. Graydon has sustained a steady reduction in pool-badge membership for years: 50 percent in the past five years. The new plan, previously displayed at informal meetings, already has almost 5,000 people interested in buying badges at $150 a person, which would minimize the cost of the $13.9 million bonded construction fund to Ridgewood to $58,000 this year and $24,000 next year in start-up and design funds. The concept displayed and described calls for construction of four distinct pools where the present lake is today and in the vicinity. The pools would include a toddler pool near the bathroom and food stand; a 16,000-square-foot pool with zero entry, meaning that the water at the entrance would be shallow, and a “lazy river” for upper elementary and middle school children; a dedicated diving pool with a board, and the only deep water in the complex; and an eight-lane, non-Olympic size 25-yard lap pool. The first few speakers at the meeting after the hour-long presentation were applauded by a large portion of the audience as they advocated the plan, which they said would draw back families with young children, who now sometimes pay for pool memberships outside Ridgewood due (continued on page 22)
An artist’s rendition of the proposed changes for the Graydon Pool complex.
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