Photos courtesy of Allentown YMCA.
Allentown YMCA Offers First Public Salt-Water Pool In Lehigh Valley
Pool Changes, New Gym Floor Bring Better Recreation Opportunities To Members
Allentown, Pa. –The Allentown YMCA/YWCA in September became the first facility in the Lehigh Valley to provide a salt-water pool to members when the changeover from traditional chlorinated water was completed during the annual pool cleaning, and the organization is now replacing the aged floor in the main gymnasium in preparation for winter activities.
President and CEO Jim Finchum said the $40,000 switch to a salt-water system in the pool means a healthier swimming environment for members and provides $5,000 in annual costs-savings through a reduced need for chemical cleansers.
“It’s not like ocean water as it is easier on the eyes and the skin and it won’t make swim suits fade in color like traditional chlorine pools,” Finchum said. “Salt-water pools have also been shown to be better for the hair and skin and they are much easier on the environment because there is less waste.”
The salt-water pool opened Sept. 1 and members have enthusiastically embraced the change. The work also included the addition of a two new filters and a new heat exchanger to moderate the water temperature.
“I’ve been swimming laps at the Y for about 15 years, two or three times a week. I usually swim for just over an hour,” said longtime member Ed Gibney of Macungie. “It seemed too good to be true but shortly after that the conversion was completed and the first time I swam, I couldn’t believe the difference! No more nasty aftertaste and dry mouth syndrome.
“Another benefit was coming home and not smelling of chlorine for hours afterward,” Gibney added. “I want to thank the staff and board for securing the grants and coordinating this fantastic and modern improvement!”
The gym floor replacement is current underway and is expected to be completed and ready for play by Oct. 12, Finchum said. The $75,000 cost includes the new flooring and repairs to the roof over the gym. The Y provides a wide variety gym programs for members, ranging from community basketball and volleyball to dance and self-defense classes for both adults and youngsters.
Both projects were funded through grants from the Trexler Trust foundation.
The changes cap two years of capital improvements to the YMCA building at 15th and Fairview streets, including a new roof on the building, updated and enhanced air conditioning system, a new boiler system and heat exchangers that changes our system from steam to hot water.
The Y was built in 1961 and expanded in 1971.
“The overall goal here is to upgrade and modernize our facilities to provide our members with the best and most affordable health, fitness and educational opportunities in the region,” Finchum said. “We are proud of our building and very grateful to supporters such as the Trexler Trust foundation that make so much of this possible.”
To learn more, please go to http://allentownymcaywca.org/.
