Pan Am Pool is one step closer to a major renewal that the City of Winnipeg says will help keep the nearly 60-year-old facility operating for decades to come.
Sandra Sawatzky, manager of the Community Services Department’s Asset Management Office, said the work is needed to prevent further deterioration at the facility.
“Pan Am Pool is really the cornerstone of aquatic sport in Winnipeg,” Sawatzky said.
The facility, which was built in 1967 for the Pan American Games, is used for public swimming, lessons, and community programming, as well as training and competitions in swimming, diving, water polo, and artistic swimming.
Pool closure plan
The work is expected to begin in January 2027 and continue through the summer of 2028.
The city expects Pan Am Pool to close to the general public for about 16 months while the work is completed.
Sawatzky said the city has been planning the project for several years and has consulted with aquatic sport organizations about keeping athletes training during construction.
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Swim Manitoba will continue to use the training tank, while Dive Manitoba will have access to portions of the facility for trampolines and other diving equipment.
“Even though it is inconvenient to the public and to the user groups, it’s critical to keeping the pool open for the long term,” Sawatzky said.
The city is encouraging residents to use other municipal pools while Pan Am Pool is closed.
The roughly $7-million project will focus on the main pool tank, including concrete repairs, replacement of the waterproof membrane and new tile. Repairs and upgrades will also be made to the facility’s dive towers, including railings and surfaces.
Provincial funding supports project
The project is being funded by the Province of Manitoba through the Recreation and Library Facility Investment Strategy.
The Pan Am Pool renewal is part of a broader effort to upgrade aging aquatic facilities in Winnipeg.
Seven Oaks Pool is currently closed for similar work, while an expansion of St. James Civic Centre and other upgrades at Seven Oaks Pool are underway.
The city recently reopened Bonivital Pool following a lengthy revitalization.
the city has a number of facilities that offer great spaces for families to swim and enjoy time together, with a full list of pools available through the City of Winnipeg’s recreation website.