Resident Forum February 5, 2013

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2 Conway Residents, this is YOUR pool!!! Resident Forum February 5, 2013 Please save your questions for the end of the presentation. We have a lot of information to go over and are looking forward to answering your questions.

3 Tonight s Presentation: Who We Are History of Pool Problems Progress to Date Project Description Costs and Funding Questions & Discussion Conway Pool, 1967

4 Conway Community Swimming Pool, Inc. The Conway Swimming Pool is owned and managed by Conway Community Swimming Pool, Inc. (CCSPI), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization independent of the Town of Conway. The pool was formed for the benefit and enjoyment of Conway residents and their invited guests. Conway Pool, 1967 Conway Pool, 2008

5 Conway Community Swimming Pool, Inc. Officers James Recore, President Michael Kurkulonis, Vice President Mary Parker, Treasurer Craig Warner, Secretary Board of Trustees James Recore, Michael Kurkulonis, Mary Parker, Craig Warner, Charlie Allis, Joseph Zadroga, Pam Westgate, Paul Charest, Denise Dwelley Additional Committee Members Tom McCarthy, Kevin MacDonald, Chris Rose

6 Conway Pool, 1890 (No Pool!!!) Who We Are History of Pool Problems Progress to Date Project Description Costs and Funding Questions & Discussion

7 Pool Construction Pool was built with plans, equipment, and labor from as many as men at a time. Project completed in less than two months. Would have been > $22,000 if the work had been hired (that s over $200,000 in today s dollars, without regulations) Actual Cost: < $4,500 Money was raised by card parties, suppers, and contributions.

8 Maintenance History Pool maintenance accomplished with volunteer labor and borrowed equipment; sometimes with assistance from the Town. Regular dredging of the pool; Beach replenishment; Minor dam repairs as necessary; Construction and repair of raft, dock, diving board; Brush cutting, lawn mowing and other landscape maintenance.

9 Conway Pool Tidbits Idea for pool takes hold; attributed to Leon Germain; Pumpkin Hollow brook location identified Parker Family donates land for the Pool Sep 26 Nov 20 - Construction of the dam and pool June 30 - Official Agreement of Association forms Conway Community Swimming Pool, Inc. July 4 Conway Community Pool dedicated June 30 First meeting of the corporation. Alvin J. Murphy, Richard G. Hassell, William J. Fitzgerald, Rollie L. Roberts, Eugene S. Parker, Treffle A. Mercure, Ernest Staelens, Chester Gadomski Refreshment stand closed; Telephone and lights installed

10 Conway Pool Tidbits 1958 Settling pond created at south end of pool 1962 Police monitoring 1981 Beaver in Pool 1982 Town of Conway dredged pool Major flood filled pool with silt; 1986 Pool closed indefinitely Another flood! Selectmen voted to spend $600 general operation and $1,000 repairs for Pool from 1987 Germain funds; Swing set installed in memory of Violet Parker Two swimmers get Beaver Fever (Giardia); children sign up for swimming lessons; 30 sleeve discussed 1991 Estimates for removing silt $8,250 (20 years ago!)

11 Conway Pool Tidbits Discussion of using money to make site more handicap accessible 6 th Graders volunteered to cut brush; Discussion on making pool more handicap accessible Repairs to out-flow pipe, paid for pipe with Germain Funds; New lights installed; Looked into handicap accessibility Residents make repairs to culverts; the beach is replenished Conway Grammar School children raised $53.50 and donated it to the repair fund.

12 Recent Events Fall, 2010 Pool was officially closed after discovering significant bypass and sinkhole issues with the dam. May July, 2011 Local volunteers attempted to make low cost repairs and do long overdue dredging. It quickly became apparent that the days of annual volunteer labor and equipment donations would no longer keep the pool going. Increased government regulations would make the historical volunteer and low cost work impossible. August, 2011 Tropical Storm Irene adds sediment and debris to the pool. Conway Pool, 2012

13 Recent Events December, 2011 Annual donations had dropped off 75%. Volunteers, both old and new, jumped head first into what would be a huge undertaking with essentially no funding. Process of understanding engineering and permitting begins. January April, 2012 Conway Pool, 2012 The committee explored many options, starting with the most simple get it done solutions Worked with an environmental consultant and the local Conservation Commission. Soon realized the experience of an engineering firm would be required to work with the over six local, state, and federal agencies involved. The permitting process could take up to a year. Our stomachs and hearts dropped.

14 Conway Pool, 2012 Who We Are History of Pool Problems Progress to Date Project Description Costs and Funding Questions & Discussion

15 What s the Problem? 1. Dam needs to be repaired. 2. Pool needs to be dredged. 3. Beach needs replenishing. 4. Site grading for storm water run-off. Additionally: There needs to be clear operating and maintenance procedures going forward to comply with regulations and for financial planning.

16 How the Dam works

17 1. Dam Needs Repair Pipe through dam needs to be replaced. Poor Pipe condition has compromised the stability of the dam as seen by the formation of a sink hole on top of the dam.

18 Dam Repairs Include All Structures Embankment Concrete Walls Spillway Pipe Low-Level Outlet Gates/Valves Emergency Spillway

19 2. Pool Needs Dredging Volume of pool has been decreasing. Silt and sand from upstream, the beach, and nearby roads is gradually filling the pool. Sediment is covering the lowlevel outlet structure. Sediment is from 6 inches to 3 feet deep. Some sediment from Hurricane Irene. Approximately 3,000 cubic yards of sediment needs to be removed and disposed of (175 large dump truck loads!).

20 3. Beach Needs Replenishing Sand from beach area has eroded. Re-grading of the beach will slow future erosion; Beach will be easier to maintain.

21 4. Site Grading The entire site (from the roadway to the pool) needs to be re-graded to better handle stormwater run-off. Grading is important to the long-term maintenance and environmental health of the site (we don t want to go through this again), NOT included in our list of must-do in order to open the pool.

22 Who We Are History of Pool Problems Progress to Date Project Description Costs and Funding Questions & Discussion

23 Recent Progress June August, 2012 Proposals requested from 3 engineering firms. The committee selected Fuss & O Neill. August December, 2012 Surveys, soil borings, tests, wetland delineations, more surveys. Meetings, meetings, and more meetings. Reviewing of permit requirements, engineering specifics, and permit applications with Fuss & O Neill. Fuss & O Neill met with MA DEP. The DEP commits to doing everything it can to have things permitted for the 2013 construction season. December, 2012 The first official permit application was filed, the Environmental Notification Form (48 pages!). January, 2013 Elevated levels of Nickel discovered in soil samples. Draft permit applications are submitted to the DEP (382 pages!!!) and the majority of other permit applications are submitted. Lots of issues along the way, but the committee is still confident in starting repairs July 1 st.

24 Engineering & Permitting June August, 2012 Fuss & O Neill engineering firm selected. Permitting and civil engineering for: the dam repairs dredging beach reclamation settling pond general improvements construction management

25 What permits are required? 1. Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) Environmental Notification Form (ENF) 2. MassDEP 401 Water Quality Certification - Minor Dredge Project Certification & Major Fill/Excavation Project Certification 3. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 404 Individual Permit 4. Wetlands Protection Act (WPA) Notice of Intent (NOI) 5. Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) Project Review 6. MADCR Chapter 253 Dam Safety Permit (Part B) 7. Section 106 Coordination (Mass Historical) & Tribes

26 Other Activity The pool repairs have been the priority, but other very time consuming tasks have also been worked on over the past year. Conservation Restriction February, CCSPI submitted a Community Preservation Act funding application to the Conway Community Preservation Committee requesting $123,000 in exchange for a development restriction (Conservation Restriction) on the pool property. The money would go into the pool s operating account, CPA monies cannot be used directly for repairs of an existing recreational facility. May, 2012 Residents approved the CPA article on the town warrant for $123,000. June - December, 2012 Over ten revisions of a 19 page Conservation Restriction, reviewed by the CPC, ConCom, Selectboard, and CCSPI. Documents are reviewed by the state, signatures from three committees are obtained, and deed restrictions are finally filed. Yes, an eleven month process. Right of First Refusal December, 2012 A Right of First Refusal on the property was granted to the Town of Conway in parallel with the Conservation Restriction.

27 Other Activity Land-Swap and Survey May June, CCSPI negotiates a small land-swap with a neighboring land owner allowing the pool better control of land on the south and giving land to the neighbor better suited for their purpose. Many visits and surveys, the new plot is recorded in the registry. Festival of the Hills Awareness and Fundraising September 30, 2012 The committee sets up an informational booth, hands out flyers, and accepts donations. Germain Trust Funds Requested for Pool Accessibility and Rehabilitation December 3, 2012 The committee provides a status update to the town Selectboard and requests funding from the M&M Germain Trust specifically for the accessibility and rehabilitation portion of the project.

28 Frustration!!! Regulations are delaying this project. Could have been completed in about 3 weeks in 2011 for about 1/3 to 1/5 the cost. Construction methods will be done almost identical as if no permits were acquired

29 Who We Are History of Pool Problems Progress to Date Project Description Costs and Funding Questions & Discussion Conway Pool Repairs, 1995

30 The Plan 1. Dam Embankment Repairs 2. Spillway/Outlet Structure Replacement 3. Sediment Dredging and Removal 4. Beach Area Improvements 5. Pool Maintenance Access Roadway 6. Dam Maintenance Access Roadway 7. Upper Recreation Area Improvements 8. Accessibility Improvements

31 Wetland Impacts The pool and surrounding area are wetlands, thus Army Corps of Engineering and DEP permits are required. 372 sf of delineated Bordering Vegetated Wetlands (BVW); 86,750 sf of delineated Land Under Water (LUW); 357 linear feet (lf) of delineated Bank and approximately; 24,237 sf of Riverfront Area within the project area. The total area of wetland impacts is estimated to be: No permanent BVW impacts; 230 sf of temporary BVW impacts and; 110 lf of permanent Bank impacts; 215 lf of temporary Bank impacts and; 1,115 sf of permanent LUW impacts; 83,385 sf of temporary LUW impacts and; 14,720 sf of permanent Riverfront Area impact; 7,055 sf of temporary Riverfront impact. The Bank impacts occur on the upstream and downstream slopes of the dam and along the beach front. Construction equipment entrance and egress will occur via existing roadways and through the beach area and existing pathway to the dam crest.

32 Dam Embankment Repairs Repair dam sinkholes and washouts and any other necessary embankment repairs along the dam. Brush and vegetation will be trimmed in the Emergency Spillway.

33 Outlet Structure (Spillway) New: 8 x 12 foot concrete riser structure Headwall Lower and mid-level outlet gates Gate valves Concrete headwalls Larger, 48 outlet pipe

34 Sediment Dredging and Removal The pool will be dredged to remove 3,000 cubic yards of sediment (175 large dump truck loads!). Dredged materials will be dewatered onsite. Material will be transported and disposed offsite to an upland disposal area (a major expense).

35 Beach Area Improvements The beach sand will be replaced due to sand erosion that has occurred. A concrete block wall will be installed to help protect the sand in the swimming area from washing into the main body of the pool and to contain upstream sediment. The grade on the beach will be decreased from approximately 17% to approximately 9% (given funding).

36 Pool Maintenance Access Roadway A gravel roadway will be constructed from the existing paved parking area, along the south property line, extending to the pond inlet for future dredging access. This will include the removal of necessary vegetation and grading.

37 Dam Maintenance Access Roadway The maintenance access roadway from the upper recreation area will be repaired and laid with gravel for access to the dam, including grading and drainage improvements. The 15 CMP that extends from the roadway will be replaced and a stormwater treatment unit installed. Existing stormwater drainage culverts from the roadway to the pond will be removed.

38 Accessibility Improvements Have long been desired. Requires a significant re-grading of site. NOW is the ideal and most cost-effective time to increase accessibility to the beach and pool. Whether or not these improvements happen depends on our ability to pay for them.

39 Accessibility Improvements To enhance the beach and picnic area to make it more accessible and safe for wheelchairs, elderly, and children. Includes: Handicap parking; Grading; Accessible walkways; Water accessible platforms, docks, and transfer areas. The new layout and amenities would allow the beach area of the pool to be used for physical rehabilitation and provide enjoyment for those with special needs.

40 Accessibility Concept Plan

41 Accessibility/Recreation Area Improvements Improved handicap-accessibility and safety features include: Grading to acceptable slopes; Reconfigured parking lot; Pathways from the parking area to the picnic area; Handicap -accessible dock area along the shore. Safety features include: lighting along the parking area and walkways (underground utilities). Re-grading an approximately 500 square foot (sf) area where the charcoal grills are now located. Storm water improvements will be made including a parking lot rain garden and reinforced turf parking area to minimize impervious surfaces and increase infiltration.

42 Water Access Concepts

43 Schedule Time Dec June 2013 Dec July 2013 May June 2013 July August 2013 Winter 2014 Summer 2014 Task Permit submittals and reviews. Fundraising Project out for Bid Construction Fishing Derby! Pool Open!

44 Conway Pool, 1978 Who We Are History of Pool Problems Progress to Date Project Description Costs and Funding Questions & Discussion

45 Project Costs Project Phase Estimated Cost Engineering & Permitting Preparation $94,000 Permit Fees $9,000 Engineer s Estimate (Pre-bid): Repairs (Dam & Dredging) $225,000 Beach Accessibility/Rehab/Improvements $235,000 Total Project Cost $563,000 Future operation and maintenance costs NOT included ($1,000 - $3,000 / year). Dredging Dam Inspections Drawdown Compliance

46 What must be done? While only items related to the dam repairs, dredging, and future maintenance MUST be done (to open the pool), we create additional problems by not completing the beach improvements. Accessibility improvements also address grading, drainage, and run-off that ultimately affect the maintenance of the pool. Engineering & Permitting Preparation $94,000 Permit Fees $9,000 Repairs (Dam & Dredging) $225,000 MINIMAL TO BE DONE $328,000 Beach Accessibility/Rehab/Improvements $235,000 Total Project Cost $563,000

47 Accessibility Funding The accessibility and rehabilitation portion of the project is estimated at $235,000. It is the committees desire to have as much as possible of this portion of the project completed by local contractors. Costs do not include playground equipment, picnic tables and grills, shed, bicycle racks, sheds, or pavilion. Conway Community Swimming Pool, Inc., is requesting funds from the M&M Germain Trust Fund to cover all the costs associated with site changes needed for accessibility and rehabilitation. The committee met with the Selectboard on December 3 rd and to date, the committee has not received a response.

48 M&M Germain Trust Fund Mark Boice Germain and Mildred Boice Germain Fund... held in trust by the duly elected selectmen of the Town of Conway, Massachusetts, and the principal of said trust prudently invested and the income therefrom used and expended at the discretion and direction of such selectmen for the rehabilitation of needy handicapped children and for college scholarships to students who have an earnest and impelling desire for further education... As of 9/30/2012 the M&M Germain Fund had a balance of $771,162 of which $386,010 was expendable interest.

49 Where are we with funding? $328,000 required for the minimal repairs. We ve raised $135,000 to date, of which $123,000 is from the Conservation Restriction ($12,000 from individual donations). This leaves a gap of $193,000 (for minimal repairs). An additional $235,000 is needed for the beach accessibility and rehabilitation improvements, of which we would like to fund entirely from the M&M Germain fund, of which is its intended purpose. To date, we do not have an answer on this funding. If trust funding is not granted, we do not intend to do these improvements.

50 How will we raise the money? We have approximately 4 months to raise $193,000 (required for dam repairs and dredging). AND another $253,000 for the accessibility improvements. We are in search of a resident with experience in large-scale fundraising.

51 Who We Are History of Pool Problems Progress to Date Project Description Costs and Funding Questions & Discussion Conway Pool, 2010?

52 Common Questions What happens if we don t raise the money? Simple, the pool will remain closed and the project delayed until we have the funding (and potentially increased costs). Can t we just fill the pool for now and swim? No, DEP has ordered that the site not be touched (including filling of the pool) until all permits and a construction plan are approved. Can t this be done in phases to save costs and get the pool open sooner? No, this was looked at many times very carefully. Due to the level of permitting involved, doing it in separate phases or different years is either not allowed, or would significantly drive up costs. Why don t we just fix it and pay the penalties? We ve considered it, but must play by the rules and need to make sure repairs are done to standards. Additionally, the repairs require a heavy equipment contractor, of which no contractor would take that liability. What about corporate or public funding? Funding from public sources or from people outside of Conway creates many issues for the pool. The pool is managed by a private entity for Conway Residents ONLY. Opening up fundraising outside of town would open the pool to a wider audience and drive up costs. Does someone want to ask about the Cold Water Fishery, the Wood Turtles, and Mass Historical & Tribes coordination?

53 Request for Information The committee is working on a detailed history of the pool and has only a few historical photos. Anything you can contribute, whether a photo, knowledge, documents, etc. are greatly appreciated. Photos will be scanned and returned. Thank you!!!!

54 For Updates and Further Information Go to Read The Visitor Call an officer of the committee. We are happy to answer your questions. We will not be posting this presentation. If you want a copy, please conwayswimmingpool@gmail.com and we will send an electronic copy. Please give your residential address in the request.

55 Conway Residents, this is YOUR pool!!! Questions & Discussion Thank you to all our volunteers and donors and to those no longer with us that had the forethought and dedication to create this pool.