Rendering of the proposed improvements to Calypso Cove Aquatic Park in Margate.
By David Volz
Changes are coming to the Calypso Cove Aquatic Center and Firefighters Park after contracts for two improvement projects were approved by the Margate City Commission on February 7.
Residents will soon have a new pool area at the Calypso Cove Aquatic Center, 6200 Royal Palm Boulevard, and energy-efficient lighting will be installed at Firefighters Park, 2500 Rock Island Road.
The $165,000 contract with Sammet Pools allows for removing existing play structures, site preparations for new play structures, pool deck repairs, and pool surface refinishing. Once this work is complete, the new pool playground structures will be installed.
According to Commissioner Antonio Arserio, the pool area at Calypso Cove is a hidden gem in Margate.
He said the slide area and lap pool have already been upgraded, and the splash area will be upgraded to include a splash bucket.
“These improvements are important to our community,” said Arserio. “A lot of people don’t know we have a water park. This work will create a fun place for Margate residents and neighbors to enjoy for years.”
Rendering of the proposed improvements to Calypso Cove Aquatic Park in Margate.
The concession area includes beer, strawberry daiquiris, and pina coladas. “This is to entice parents to stay and enjoy park amenities rather than just dropping off their kids and going somewhere else,” he added.
According to Vice Mayor Arlene Schwartz, years ago, before the site had a water park, it was the original public pool for Margate residents. “It is a family-oriented place where people have fun. I look forward to seeing it completed for summer fun,” she said.
Mayor Tommy Ruzzano was pleased that this contract would go to a business that had done previous work for the city and had knowledge of the existing equipment. “It is hard for smaller contractors to compete with the larger companies. This will be good for a local company,” Ruzzano said.
Firefighters Park will install LED lighting after the commission approves a capital improvement project with a budget not to exceed $ 495,000.
According to Schwartz, the lighting will be very directional to reduce light pollution and be more energy efficient. The new system will program use and self-report problems by sending notifications to park management.
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