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Solution Report: Astoria Park Pool Restoration

A wide shot from the side of the Astoria Park Pool. Photo courtesy of Timothy Schenck.

Photo Courtesy of Timothy Schenck

Astoria Park – A 100 Year Old Legacy Revitalized

A shot of the Astoria Pool being built circa 1936.

Photo Courtesy of Al Ponte’s Time Machine

The Astoria Park Pool, New York City’s largest and oldest public swimming facility, has long stood as a symbol of community recreation and architectural brilliance. Opened on July 2, 1936, during the height of the New Deal era, it was one of eleven massive outdoor pools constructed under Parks Commissioner Robert Moses. These pools, funded by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), were designed to provide accessible recreation while addressing the economic challenges of the Great Depression. Nestled in the picturesque Astoria Park overlooking the East River, the pool became a cherished landmark, even hosting Olympic Trials for swimming and diving in its early years.

In October 2022, the nearly century-old Astoria Park Pool closed to undergo a comprehensive $14 million renovation aimed at addressing aging infrastructure and bringing the facility up to contemporary standards. The renovation included the reconstruction of the pool shell, gutter and deck replacements, and the installation of modern filtration, backwash, and chemical treatment systems. These upgrades were essential to ensure the pool’s safety, functionality, and compliance with current codes. After a closure that lasted through the 2023 summer season, the pool reopened in June 2024, seamlessly blending its historical charm with modern amenities to continue serving as a vital community resource for future generations.

A Modern Revival of a Historical Landmark

The renovation balanced the pool’s historical significance with contemporary functionality. Key updates included:

  • Preservation of Historical Features: The renovation honored the pool’s original design, maintaining its iconic structure and aesthetic elements while enhancing safety and accessibility.
  • Modern Upgrades: State-of-the-art systems, including advanced filtration and water treatment technology, were installed to improve water quality and reduce maintenance requirements.
  • Community-Centered Enhancements: Updates to the pool deck and drainage systems made the facility safer and more enjoyable for visitors.

These efforts ensured that the pool’s legacy as a recreational and cultural hub remained intact while meeting the needs of modern users.

A close up of the Astoria Park pool from the side.

Photo Courtesy of Timothy Schenck

A close up of the newly installed shade area and Astoria Park Pool.

Photo Courtesy of Timothy Schenck

RenoSys & IMEG: Key Players in the Transformation

Central to the renovation’s success were the contributions of RenoSys Corporation and IMEG Corp, whose expertise brought this ambitious project to life.

  • RenoSys Corporation: A leader in aquatic renovations, with 38 years of experience RenoSys installed over 55,000 square feet of durable PVC pool liner, ensuring the pool’s interior remained watertight and visually striking. Additionally, we contributed 1,000 feet of stainless steel gutters and grating, enhancing the pool’s drainage and functionality.
  • IMEG Corp: A national engineering and design consulting company Based in New York, New York, working out of their Long Island office, IMEG provided engineering and design expertise throughout the three-year planning and implementation process. Known for their innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions, IMEG’s team of engineers and landscape architects collaborated closely with RenoSys to ensure the project adhered to budget constraints and historical preservation standards. Their role was critical in balancing the pool’s past and future, making it a model for urban redevelopment. If you have engineering or design needs, IMEG a national engineering firm with a local presence offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to various industries. Learn about their services at imegcorp.com.
  • AAH Construction Corp: Serving as the General Contractor for the project, AAH Construction Corp. played a pivotal role in coordinating all trades and subcontractors.

Want to learn more about our process?

Are you interested in learning how RenoSys transforms pools? If so, then this webinar is for you.

In this comprehensive webinar, we will discuss the RenoSys renovation process and how it can help you transform your pool. From design to installation, we will cover all aspects of the RenoSys renovation process and provide insights into why it is a top choice for pool renovations. We will also discuss some of the use cases of RenoSys products and services, so that you can get a better understanding of how they can be used to improve your pool’s look and feel.

Join us for this informative webinar to learn more about how RenoSys can help you renovate your pool!

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Collaboration and Community Impact

The renovation of the Astoria Park Pool was a monumental effort that required the collaboration of multiple contractors, each specializing in key aspects of the project. While RenoSys and IMEG played pivotal roles in the liner and design elements, other contributors made equally critical enhancements to bring this transformation to life.

  • Mechanical and Filtration System Overhaul: Advanced mechanical and filtration systems were installed to replace outdated infrastructure. These upgrades provided improved water circulation, ensured better water quality, and reduced the environmental footprint of the facility, aligning the pool with modern operational standards.
  • Structural Repairs: Contractors addressed significant structural challenges, including reinforcing the pool’s shell. These repairs were essential to prolong the facility’s life and ensure its safe operation for future generations.
  • New Plumbing for Recirculation System: To support the updated stainless steel gutter system, contractors installed new plumbing to create a full recirculation system. This upgrade was vital for maintaining water quality and optimizing the pool’s functionality.

This ambitious undertaking required not only the technical expertise of these contractors but also seamless coordination under the leadership of the NYC Parks Department. Each component, from operational upgrades to structural reinforcements, contributed to the overall success of the project. These collective efforts highlight how a diverse team of specialists can collaborate to preserve a historic site while adapting it to meet modern demands.

The Astoria Park Pool renovation exemplifies how large-scale projects rely on the combined expertise and dedication of a wide range of contributors, reflecting the power of teamwork in revitalizing public spaces for the community.

Does your deck need renovated? RenoSys has you covered!

Enhance your facility’s safety and aesthetics with RenoSys’s RecDeck PVC Decking Solutions. Designed for durability and slip resistance, RecDeck provides a comfortable, low-maintenance surface ideal for wet environments. Transform your pool deck into a welcoming space that withstands heavy use and varying weather conditions.

New deck this way
A wide angled shot from the left of the Astoria Park Pool post renovation.

Photo Courtesy of Timothy Schenck

A Community Treasure Renewed

For nearly a century, the Astoria Park Pool has been a vital part of the community, offering a space for recreation, competition, and connection. The $19 million renovation has ensured its continued role as a cornerstone of public life in New York City, blending history with modernity to create a facility that serves both as a tribute to the past and a resource for the future.

The Astoria Park Pool stands as a testament to what can be achieved through thoughtful collaboration and a shared vision. Its successful renovation highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in revitalizing urban infrastructure and preserving cultural landmarks.