Q: How much will the new pool cost to maintain, especially compared with the cost to maintain the existing pool?
A: An original estimate of annual operating expenses done by Burbach Aquatics in early 2023 was not a correct reflection of the adjusted proposed pool. As of 10/1/2024 the SHAPE Committee is actively working on estimates for ongoing annual expenses and will publish that information on our Project Overview page and on our Facebook page.
Q: What happens to donated funds if the Jewell City Council declines to allow the pool project to go forward?
A: The donations received so far cannot be returned due to significant tax implications. Should the City Council reject the pool project, each donor may direct their donation to any other charitable cause they wish to support. The redirection of donated funds does not have to remain in Jewell.
Q: How old is our existing Jewell Swimming Pool?
Answer: The Jewell Swimming Pool was built in 1964. The bathhouse exterior is in decent shape and the metal roof has been replaced recently. The City of Jewell has taken very good care of the existing 59 year old facility but it is at the end of its useful life and has been reported to be leaking.
Q: What’s wrong with the current pool?
Answer: The current pool was constructed in 1964 and the overall condition has reached a critical stage. Each swimming season is now faced with uncertainty of its continuing operation. The current facility loses 10,500 gallons per week or 135,000 gallons of water per swim season. The existing pool filtration system need to be replaced and the current facility has numerous ADA and Code Compliance issues that need to be addressed.
Q: Why did the City not maintain our existing pool?
Answer: They maintained the facility beautifully and have received 59 plus seasons of swimming. Most municipal pool have a design life of 35-50 years.
Q: How many different Conceptual Site Plans did the Pool Committee look at before deciding on this one?
Answer: Six. The Pool Committee decided on Conceptual Site Plan #6 because it will serve all age groups and will allow Jewell to offer the next generation a safe place to swim for the next 50 plus years.
Q: How much does the new pool cost?
Answer: Please visit https://buildthepool.com/overview.html for in-depth information.
Q: How is the project going to be funded?
Answer: The SHAPE committee will be writing grants, holding fundraisers, and asking for donations from individuals and businesses.
Q: Why does the new pool cost so much?
Answer: Constructing a new municipal pool is an expensive endeavor. Even the most basic facility replacement (pool vessel, mechanical building & bathhouse) would be at least $2.5 - $3.0 million. The Pool Committee decided on a design that will be unique to the area and attract people to the community. Burbach Aquatics, Inc also designs the most heavy duty facility that will withstand the harsh Midwestern environmental stresses that cause pools to leak and fail.
Q: How does the size of the new pool compare to the old pool?
Answer: The old pool surface area is 3,250 S.F. and the wading pool at 430 S. F., the new pool surface area is 3,370 S.F. with the Base Project and the addition of pool amenities and shade structures with the fully funded project.
Q: Why does the new pool need to be this size?
Answer: These following items have a direct impact related to the size of our new facility: a. A zero depth entry area that allows everyone easy access to the pool. b. There will be 3- 60 foot lanes for lap swimming, activity water and educational area. c. Offset diving hopper and deep water area for diving board, by offsetting the deep area it allows the pool to maximize the activity water where the majority of swimming happens and patrons hang out in.
Q: What is the timeline for this project?
Answer: Construction to start August 2025 and the new facility will be open for use in June 2026. (Dependent on Fundraising)
Q: Can I make an online donation?
Answer: Yes! One-time or recurring online donations can be set up here.
Q: What are some other ways that I can help this project?
Answer: Volunteering at our fundraising events is one way! Sharing our Facebook posts, or posting your own photos of our fundraising events is always a great way to raise awareness and help us earn grant money. You could also join the SHAPE committee. We are always open to feedback and would love to hear from you!
Q: Does it make sense to invest so much in outdoor recreation at this point in time? My kids barely want to leave the house.
Answer: We think investing in outdoor recreation is more important now that it has ever been. We are unwilling to give up on the belief that outdoor, in-person social time is one of the most important things for our children in this technology-driven age. Our hope is that by having a modern facility with a lot to do will encourage our kids and really all of our community to get outside and move more.
