The City of Ocala is set to approve a quarter-million-dollar renovation of the pool deck at Jervey Gantt Aquatic Center to replace deteriorating surfaces with commercial-grade, slip-resistant PVC.
On Tuesday, the Ocala City Council will review a $262,580 contract with Aquatic Renovation Systems, Inc. (RenoSys Corp.) for extensive resurfacing work at the Jervey Gantt Aquatic Center (2390 SE 36th Avenue).
The project aims to address safety and aesthetic concerns at the pool, which is located at 2390 SE 36th Avenue.
According to city records, although the existing knock-down textured surface was installed in 2020, it has since begun to peel, crack, and crumble in several areas.
The upcoming renovation will cover approximately 17,650 square feet, including the pool deck, breezeway, and restroom flooring. While the pool basin itself is not part of this specific scope of work, the surrounding areas will be outfitted with a high-quality, slip-resistant, commercial-grade PVC surfacing material.
The Jervey Gantt Aquatic Center is a key component of the city’s recreational offerings, featuring water slides, a waterfall, and various spray features. Like its counterpart, the Hampton Aquatic Center in northwest Ocala, the facility is designed for accessibility with a zero-inch depth entry and a maximum depth of five and a half feet, ensuring full ADA compliance.
The city issued an invitation to bid for the project in early January and received two proposals. RenoSys Corp., based in Indianapolis, was deemed the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. A second bid from a Texas-based company was rejected for failing to meet licensing and bid bond requirements.
Funding for the project is available through the city’s general fund. The upgrades are intended to ensure the facility meets Florida Department of Health standards for safety and accessibility.
Although the city’s splash pads will reopen this weekend, the aquatic centers will not reopen until Memorial Weekend (May 23 to May 25).
The Ocala City Council next meets at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, at Ocala City Hall (110 SE Watula Avenue).