This just released by the Department of Parks and Recreation on improvements being made to Rumsey Aquatic Center and closing dates:

The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) continues to make major improvements at the William H. Rumsey Aquatic Center located at 635 North Carolina Avenue, SE.  DPR is currently performing significant work to the systems that serve both of the pools at the Rumsey Aquatic Center which will improve the overall swimming experience.  This work is in addition to the recently completed project which saw the renovation of the men’s and women’s locker rooms, interior painting, and other general repairs.

“DPR is actively working to protect our investments across the District,” said Clark E. Ray, DPR director.  “To support this goal, we have taken a much more aggressive approach in our repairs, service, and preventive maintenance work.  I look forward to the successful completion of another round of major improvements and preventive maintenance work at Rumsey Aquatic Center.”

During the months of April and May, significant work is being done to improve the systems that service both the large swimming pool and the smaller baby pool.  Work now underway includes:

- Installation of new pool pumps for both pools
- Installation of new pool filters for both pools
- Installation of new pool heaters for both pools
- Installation of new automatic chemical treatment systems for both pools
- Installation of new backwash piping for both pools
- Installation of new pool and pump piping for both pools
- Installation of new sump pump
- Installation of new pool ultraviolet (UV) sanitation system which will assist in the destruction of microorganisms and reduces the impact of chlorine smell and eye irritation
- Diagnostic tests on the HVAC and boiler systems

To accommodate the installation of the new systems for both pools, the Rumsey Aquatic Center will temporarily close on Monday, May 19, 2008, and the facility will re-open on Tuesday, May 27.

During the temporary closure of the Rumsey Aquatic Center, DPR will offer expanded hours at the Turkey Thicket Aquatic Facility, 1100 Michigan Avenue, NE, (202) 576-9236.  Expanded hours will be Monday – Friday, 6:30 am to 9 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm.

Programs and classes that were to be held at Rumsey Aquatic Center during the temporary closure will be rescheduled at other nearby DPR aquatic centers.  Registrants that would prefer to opt out of rescheduled classes or would like additional information about the closure can contact DPR at (202) 673-7647.

For More Information: DPR Aquatics, (202) 673-7647.