DIG WE MUST: New buildings are taking shape amid the piles of dirt and equipment at the Princeton Community Pool Complex site. For obvious safety reasons, the site is not open to passers-by. (Photo by Joe Marrolli)

BUILT TO LAST: Both the lap pool and the diving well will have steel-enforced Myrtha systems by the time renovation of the pool complex is completed. (Photo by Joe Marrolli)

Some people might find the current landscape at the Princeton Community Pool daunting. “It’s quite an operation,” acknowledged Recreation Department Executive Director Ben Stentz as he recently led a visitor around the huge trucks and implements, mountains of dirt, porto-potties, concrete, and half-finished swimming pools that currently comprise the site. The swarms of workmen and good weather are reassuring, though, and the Memorial Day weekend opening goal is almost a sure thing, said Mr. Stentz.

After looking at plans and revisions made in response to concerns expressed by members of the community over many months, Mr. Stentz said that it is wonderful to see the actual structures taking shape. The kiddie pool is already distinguishable in the shape of a large fish; a new Myrtha system (steel casing within concrete) is clearly visible around the diving well, and the lap pool is being prepared for a Myrtha system as well. New administrative offices, locker rooms, and the foundation for a community room are also discernible. Originally, plans were made to completely enclose the new locker rooms. The move to put in skylights is particularly good evidence of how the Recreation Department and pool planners incorporated the wishes of the community into the final plans.

The diving well is being expanded by 20 per cent in width to accommodate more diving boards and a water slide, and the family pool adjacent to the lap pool is taking shape. No less important are the operations that are not immediately visible to the eye, like a separate filter system for the kiddie pool, and a UV screen on all the filters to ensure clean water. Having a separate system for the kiddie pool is a distinct advantage with respect to “sanitary issues” observed Mr. Stentz.

Among the interesting new innovations this summer, Mr. Stentz said, will be moveable lifeguard posts, to ensure flexibility as traffic flows become apparent, particularly during the pool’s first summer. Several extra lifeguards will be hired, and among their tasks will be ongoing rotations at the diving well water slide.

Another part of the diving pool renovation is the creation of a four-foot deep area that will accommodate new programming options, such as portable basketball,

The new community room promises to be the site of birthday parties, swim team meets, among other functions throughout the year.

Mr. Stentz is hoping that the new pool complex will attract more visitors from within the Princeton community and beyond. Prices in each membership category and daily visitor fees are being raised only slightly, he noted. Family membership rates for 2012 are $275 for early birds who register before April 16, and $295 after. The 2011 rates were, respectively, $237 and $258. Early bird rates for individual adults will be $160, and $180 after April 16. The 2011 rates were $145 and $165. Individual children can get a pool pass this summer for $93; in 2011 their rate was $78. The rate for individual seniors are now $88, up from last year’s $73 fee.

Other reassuring pool news: Larry Ivan will be back.

Visit the Recreation Department’s website to see continually updated photos of the pool’s progress.