Waimea pool reopens after renovation

WAIMEA — Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami got no takers from about two dozen people who gathered for the blessing of the Waimea swimming pool Wednesday morning as he issued a “who can hold your breath the longest” while dunked in the pool.

“This project which was completed ahead of schedule is much needed, as the Westside community depends on this pool for their recreational needs,” Kawakami said.

The renovation work at the pool started in November. At a cost of about $1 million, the pool deck was restored, plumbing and electrical improvements were done, as well as accessibility upgrades in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“This pool was built by the veterans of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and the 100th Infantry Battalion after they came home?” Rep. Dee Morikawa questioned while waiting for the re-opening. “They were using small pipes (compared with the today’s standards) so a lot of the work needed to be done underground.”

Kawakami said the work was done with help from Morikawa and the Legislature, Palms Hawaii Architecture, and Pacific Blue Construction.

“A lot of kupuna use the pool for exercise and relaxation,” he said. “I’m glad the partnerships were able to get the work done ahead of schedule, and just in time for the hottest part of the year.”