Council advances two-phase plan for Highland Park pool

Last month, the Guthrie City Council voted to move forward with an updated plan for the Highland Park Pool following a meeting held on April 7.

Public Works Director Tenny Maker introduced the item before representatives from GH2 Architects and Crossland Construction presented a revised two-phase proposal. Members of the Parks Board, Friends of Highland Park Pool, and the Capital Improvement Projects Committee were also in attendance. Related article: Watch: Guthrie pool given more time as citizen group raises $290,000; pushes for larger design

Phase 1 of the project closely follows the previously presented design but includes several key changes. Related article: City Council hears proposed remodel of Highland Park pool

The zero-depth entry has been removed and replaced with a traditional stepped entry at approximately three feet in depth. Accessibility will be addressed with either a built-in ramp or an ADA chair lift. Plans also include updates to the bathhouse to meet current codes and renovations to the existing equipment building to allow for future expansion.

Phase 2 would consist of a separate, independently operated pool of approximately 2,300 square feet to the north of the main pool. City officials noted there are no current or future plans for the City of Guthrie to fund Phase 2, which would rely entirely on private donations if constructed.

The council approved the two-phase approach. The approval directs Crossland Construction to proceed with design development and provide options for projected funding.

The update follows ongoing community efforts and fundraising tied to the project, which previously included a proposal for an expanded pool design. Related article: Community fundraising effort attempts to boost plans for city pool