New Public Pool Possible For Norwalk

NORWALK, Conn. – A private developer has contacted Mayor Richard Moccia about the possibly of building a public pool in Norwalk that could eventually replace the YMCA that’s closing at the end of the month.

With the closing of the Norwalk YMCA on West Avenue, a developer is considering a new public pool for the city, according to Mayor Richard Moccia.
Photo Credit: *Alfred Branch*

by Alfred Branch

12/20/2012 2:00 a.m.

Details of the plan – and the identity of the developer – have not been disclosed. And despite mentioning the possibility during a Board of Education meeting Tuesday, Moccia is staying mum about the project.

Deputy Planning Director Michael Wrinn said no one has applied to the planning office to build a new public pool in the city, but he said such a use would be permitted.

“Along Route 1 or Route 7, or one of the industrial zones, could be a possible spot for it,” Wrinn said.

Wrinn added that with the SoNo Field House and SoNo Ice House springing up in recent years, a public pool “could fit right in.” The field house has become a popular spot for indoor soccer and lacrosse, while the ice skating rink is the city’s first new rink in more than 20 years.

The closing of the YMCA on West Avenue has put local swimmers in a difficult situation, particularly the young swimmers on the city’s Zeus Swim Team. YMCAs in the area have opened their doors to Norwalk members, but the Zeus team is forced to seek additional hours at the already busy Norwalk High School pool.

Tuesday night, the Board of Education unanimously approved a new two-year contract for the team to use the high school pool.

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