As public meeting looms, Parks and Recreation commissioners review portions of swim center renovation design

Palm Springs Parks and Recreation commissioners reviewed portions of the latest proposed design for a $7 million renovation of the Palm Springs Swim Center during Monday evening’s meeting, with the public scheduled to see the plans and offer feedback for the first time Thursday.

Maria Song, principal architect at Palm Springs-based Interactive Design Corporation, unveiled the schematic design that includes a new steel pavilion structure, dual entrances and renovated locker rooms.

“We were able to literally squeeze all the needs that are missing right now in the swim center,” Song told commissioners during Monday evening’s meeting.

The presentation to commissioners covered key elements of the schematic design phase, but must eventually move to the City Council for final approval. Funding for the project was recently combined with the city’s library bond to move the renovation forward.

The design features an upper deck at the same elevation as the main walkway, eliminating the current multi-level steps that create accessibility challenges. Two primary entrances will serve different functions – one for daily swimming and another for large events that can accommodate hundreds of visitors.

A new steel pavilion structure will provide shade over the locker room areas, with perforated panels and potential solar panel installation. The design includes a 29-degree temperature difference between direct sun and shaded areas, according to Song.

Parks and Recreation Director Nicholas Gonzalez said the project covers building improvements, locker rooms and ADA compliance upgrades, but does not include changes to the pool infrastructure itself. The facility will remain open during construction, though temporary facilities will be provided while locker rooms are renovated.

Some existing palm trees will need to be removed as part of the construction, though Song said relocation would be difficult. The trees will be replaced with younger palms as part of a desert landscape design.

The public will get its first opportunity to see the proposed design changes and offer comments Thursday at 5 p.m. during a community meeting at the Leisure Center at 401 South Pavilion Way. Following that meeting, an agreement with Interactive Design Corporation will go to the City Council in July for final approval.

Song’s firm will manage the project from design through completion, including design development, construction documents, bidding and contract administration.

The renovation represents a significant upgrade to the facility, which has seen additions in the 1980s and 1990s but retained much of its original 1970s bathhouse design of approximately 1,400 square feet.

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