Thompson Memorial Pool
The Thompson Memorial Pool in Ludlow, Massachusetts suffered from significant water loss and settlement issues and was closed in 2004. Weston & Sampson was hired to facilitate a series of community-based public outreach meetings that would inform a renovation plan for the complex. After several meetings with both the public and the Recreation Commission, consensus was reached and a conceptual design was approved. The new pool includes a zero-depth entry and wading pool area with ground-mounted spray elements and an overhead feature, sloped transition zone that leads to the lap lane area and a water slide feature with 5.5-feet depth. Adequate buoy line anchors planned for installation throughout the pool allow for staff to manage the water usage as appropriate based on the patrons using the pool at any one time. Through an effective grassroots effort and the work of local and state politicians, money was earmarked for the project. The construction phase was a success due to an efficient and productive collaboration between DCR, the contractor Fontaine Brothers, Inc., and the designer. The complex was completed with a brand new bathhouse over the 2009/2010 winter and opened for its inaugural season on July 9, 2010 with a ribbon cutting ceremony.