A recent survey conducted by a third-party organization at Simmons Sports Centre has revealed that the newly constructed outdoor pool may fall short of the required length for certification by Swimming Canada. The City of Charlottetown will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the exact dimensions of the pool once it closes for the season.
According to a city statement, the pool, which should measure 25 meters, is slightly shorter than the length needed for certification. The city is collaborating with the construction company to verify the pool’s dimensions and make necessary adjustments if needed.
Swimming Canada mandates that pools meet specific length requirements for competitive events. Michelle Killins, the organization’s director of sport development, mentioned that while there is flexibility for pools exceeding 25 meters, being too short disqualifies them. Killins noted that such discrepancies in pool dimensions, like in Charlottetown’s case, are not uncommon.
Acapulco Pools, responsible for constructing the pool, acknowledged the survey results and is working with the city to confirm the pool’s measurements. A follow-up assessment will occur once the pool is closed for the season to ensure compliance with certification standards.
The exact extent of the pool’s shortfall from meeting regulatory standards has not been disclosed by either the city or Acapulco Pools. The Simmons Sports Centre, which includes an NHL-sized rink seating 600 people and an indoor walking track, opened in December 2024 after facing delays due to construction challenges and supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project, approved by Charlottetown council in 2022, incurred a cost of approximately $36 million.