One of Erie's most unique swimming pools undergoes first renovation in more than 40 years

One of northwestern Pennsylvania's most unique swimming pools will undergo its first renovation since it was built in 1979.

Barber National Institute officials announced Thursday that a $3 million pool and natatorium project will begin in mid-November and be completed in early spring.

"Due to wear and tear of nearly daily use over the past 40-plus years, the pool needs its first major renovation," Robert Barber, the institute's senior vice president, said in a news release.

What makes the Barber Institute's pool unique?

The institute — which works with children who have autism, intellectual disabilities and behavioral health challenges — has used the pool, at 100 Barber Place, for its clients' therapy and recreation, and has provided swim lessons to the public.

The pool's most distinctive feature is a moveable floor that can be raised to allow wheelchairs to be moved into the pool, then lowered to a water depth of four-and-a-half feet.

"Plans include additions and updates to the hydraulic system that raises and lowers the floor, updated locker room and shower facilities accessible for people with disabilities, and a state-of-the-art filtration system," Barber said.

Officials have been raising funds, making plans for the renovation

Institute officials originally announced the project in August 2022. Since then, they have created plans for the renovation and raised funding.

More than $2 million has been raised so far, institute spokeswoman Tammy Roche said. The project is expected to be funded entirely through donations.

Contact David Bruce at dbruce@timesnews.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ETNBruce.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Barber National Institute swimming pool undergoes $3 million renovation