Aquatic Center Olympic pool resurfacing project update
Published on April 04, 2025
The Los Alamos County Community Services Department has scheduled the resurfacing of the Larry R. Walkup Aquatic Center Olympic pool from March 2026 to October 2026. The resurfacing project involves removing and replacing the existing plaster shell within the pool. During the project's duration, both the Olympic and Therapy pools will be closed. The Leisure Lagoon is scheduled to remain open.
The Aquatic Center was built in the late 1980s, and while other maintenance projects have taken place in recent years, the plaster shell of the main Olympic pool is original and showing its age. Plaster pool shells are designed to have a lifespan of 15 – 20 years. While good annual maintenance has extended their life, they now require replacement. This type of project is not easy and requires removing the old shell plaster finish within the pool surface that maintains contact with water.
The Recreation Division and Public Works project team are working on drafting a contract with Lee-sure Pools, based out of Albuquerque, New Mexico, the only service provider within the Southwest with the expertise to complete such a project. Currently, the scope of work will include, but is not limited to:
- Removing the old plaster,
- Removing and replacing the rebar, if exposed,
- Re-plastering the Olympic-size pool,
- Removing and replacing the pool tile,
- Addressing the tow ledge,
- Installing anchor cups,
- Removing and replacing the pool lights,
- Removing and replacing the handrails in the main and therapy pools,
- Installing depth markers and “no diving” tiles for the main and therapy pools and
- Removing and replacing the starting blocks.
The contract with Lee-sure Pools is scheduled to be presented to the County Council in May 2025. Construction is currently projected to begin in March 2026 through October 2026. To help reduce the impact on the local swimming community during the closure, agreements with alternative swim locations are being considered, including the local outdoor pools, Pojoaque Wellness Center, and the City of Santa Fe Ft. Marcy and Genoveva Chavez centers. Additionally, the Recreation Division plans to keep the Leisure Lagoon open during the project, as it is separated from the main building and on a different ventilation system.