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New pool a huge undertaking for a small town

Luseland, population about 750, has achieved an impressive fundraising goal, enabling them in to build a new swimming pool in less than three years from the first meeting to discuss the idea.
Luseland
Luseland and area residents celebrated the long life of their Centennial pool at a farewell barbecue on Canada Day this year. Photo submitted by Sherri Solomko

Luseland, population about 750, has achieved an impressive fundraising goal, enabling them in to build a new swimming pool in less than three years from the first meeting to discuss the idea.

The original Luseland pool was built in 1966, with the official opening happening during the centennial in 1967. The 51-year-old pool had an impressive lifespan, but the community realized it was time to renew this recreation venue. 

The first meeting to discuss the idea of fundraising for a pool took place in the spring of 2015. Multiple initiatives took place and construction began this fall.

The estimated project cost is $1.2 million.

Some of the fundraisers held included a CTV Hometown Tour barbecue in October 2016, a Marilyn Monroe dress unveiling in July of 2017, a canola crop fundraiser in fall of 2017, as well as a trip of the month draw for the past four years.  

A farewell barbecue and fundraising efforts by the Luseland Canada Day committee contributed more than $35,000. A March Fund the Pool Month Campaign raised $316, 045. To date, the committee has raised a total of $969,774.

The committee reports they are only $230,000 away from having the pool fully funded.

Co-chairs of the New Luseland Swimming Pool Project are Candice Kraft and Adam Franko.

Kraft says, “The demolition of the old pool has already taken place beginning on Sept. 6. The contractors are ready to begin excavating as soon as the weather begins to co-operate and it dries up enough to get equipment around.”

Kraft says the committee appreciates the support from the community of Luseland and surrounding areas.

Once the decision was made to replace the pool, the committee toured around to a number of facilities in the surrounding area to gain an understanding of what has worked for others.

The new facility, built under the supervision of Western Recreation, will replace the existing pool and expand the services offered. A new pool service building will house the change rooms, including two family change rooms, lifeguard office, mechanical room and storage area. The facility will be wheelchair accessible. The new pool will include a zero/beach entry to provide a place for younger community members to enjoy the pool. A waterslide will provide additional activities for the older kids. Lane swimming will still be available along with all of the other activities already offered by the existing pool.

Why is a pool important to Luseland and surrounding communities?  The committee members say they felt the pool adds something to the community that not only benefits current residents of all ages, but will help to draw new residents.  

The community of Luseland can take pride in pulling off such a successful fundraising feat. The goal now is to have the new pool ready for swimming season in 2019.