Refurbished Sheerr Pool Creates Waves at Pottruck Center

Sheerr Pool at the Pottruck Center, a beloved facility at the University of Pennsylvania, has reopened this summer after a year-long renovation. The first renovation since its opening in 1967, the project aimed to modernise and enhance the pool, making it safer, more accessible, and a better experience for all users.

The renovation has introduced several notable changes. New ADA-compliant entry stairs and an ADA-compliant viewing platform have been added, ensuring accessibility for all. A full glass entry wall and door have been installed, allowing visitors to catch a glimpse of the pool as soon as they enter the Pottruck Center.

The pool's programming, including swim lessons, will resume in the fall semester. The new gutter system, which brings the water level flush with the pool deck, has been installed. This system not only makes the pool safer for lifeguards to perform rescues, as lifeguards no longer have to contend with an 11-inch drop-off, but it also allows chlorine fumes to dissipate more easily.

In addition to the gutter system, a new lighting system has been installed. The new system is more serviceable, energy efficient, and adjustable than the previous one, and can be dimmed when the pool is not in use. The pool lighting has been upgraded to provide brighter and more even illumination.

New seating has been installed around the pool, and a new filtration and ventilation system has been upgraded to ensure the cleanliness and comfort of the pool environment. The renovation has also seen the addition of new diving boards and starting blocks, as well as a zero-depth entry gutter system.

The University of Pennsylvania was responsible for the renovation of Sheerr Pool. Colin Wells, the associate director of facility operations at Penn Campus Recreation, and Noah Gustkey, the associate athletic director/senior director of facilities at Penn Athletics, oversaw the project.

During the renovation, alternative facilities had to be found to accommodate varsity teams, club teams, and recreational swimmers. Despite the challenges posed by the lack of suitable alternative facilities, the renovation of Sheerr Pool has been a success, and the pool is now ready to serve the University of Pennsylvania community once again.