The Novato Unified School District Board of Trustees voted on August 6, 2013, to replace the pool, increase the pool deck space, and expand the dance studio at Novato High School (NHS). The new facilities are scheduled to open late 2014 or early 2015.
In June, NUSD staff presented information, drawings and cost estimates for the replacement of the pool at NHS based on two community meetings with NUSD staff, coaches and interested community members. The community group agreed and recommended that a rectangle pool be designed allowing for water polo, swimming and recreation uses while increasing the overall surface area of the pool. In addition to the change of the pool design, the community users group also recommended the need for outside restrooms, a change in the location of the pool equipment, and an office. These requests were incorporated into the design of the pool complex. It was additionally recommended that the dance studio that occupies the deck space be removed and relocated to increase the deck size.
Space to relocate the dance studio was identified in July. The new dance studio will be at least twice the size of the existing dance room and will replace two classrooms not being used. The total cost of the project, including the demolition of the current dance studio, renovation of the two classrooms and construction of the new pool and ancillary rooms is $4,379,000. NUSD received a state reimbursement of $874,180 for new construction. The remaining balance of $3,504,820 will come from monies that can only be spent on construction projects: Fund 21, Building Fund Proceeds, and Redevelopment Agency Fees.
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“I see this as enhancing a variety of programs from aquatics to dance to P.E. and providing opportunities for both students and staff. We’re very excited for these new facilities and thank the Board of Trustees for having the vision to approve this project,” commented Rey Mayoral, Novato High School Principal. Both the pool and dance studio will be available for community use.
The design will be submitted to DSA in late October 2013 with project bidding in late March or early April 2014. It is anticipated demolition of the pool and dance studio would begin in mid June 2014. For further information, please contact Dave Ashe, Construction Manger, dashe@nusd.org or 415 898-2859.
