More Than a Pool
Platt/Whitelaw Architects proud of its role helping reopen the Jackie Robinson YMCA pool.
Context is everything. Saying we designed a mechanical building for a pool doesn’t sounds particularly exciting. But a mechanical building for a beloved recreation destination for generations of families in an underserved neighborhood sounds pretty cool.
A community pool
Such was our work with Aquatic Design Group to renovate and reopen a six-lane, 25-yard pool and its surrounding area at the Jackie Robinson YMCA. Located in Southeastern San Diego, this pool is the only place where many area residents, including the kids, can swim.
Platt/Whitelaw team member Julijana Petrovic said that one speaker at the grand opening in 2022 talked about how she, her kids and her grandkids all learned how to swim at this pool.
As reported by the Union Tribune, “Councilmember Monica Montgomery Steppe told the crowd almost 80% of low-income children have never taken a swimming lesson.”
Fortunately, swim and water safety lessons are services the Jackie Robinson YMCA now offers…at its reopened pool.
Getting the job done
The pool was originally built in 1967 and was shut down in 2015 for safety reasons. Once we had the green light, our team worked hard to get the aquatic facility back open as soon as possible. From groundbreaking to grand opening, construction lasted only about eight months.
Our contribution to the project involved designing a mechanical building that would support the operations of the pool and splash pad. Sandra Gramley, AIA, NCARB, and Julijana from our team worked closely with Aquatic Design Group to do so.
They also collaborated with Aark Engineering’s structural engineers as well as mechanical, plumbing and electrical engineers from Turpin & Rattan.
A gathering space
For its surrounding community, the new facility at Jackie Robinson YMCA is more than just a pool.
Jackie Robinson Family YMCA Executive Director Anna Arancibia told the Union Tribune, “It’s a symbol of access, community and belonging for all. With this new incredible amenity, we hope to create a positive community gathering space that provides everyone access to opportunities that lead to happy and healthy lives.”
Anna’s words stated exactly why our firm remains so committed to community-based architecture. We are proud to help make a positive impact for the people of Southeast San Diego…and throughout our region.
