Mayor James J. Fiorentini > Press Release

January 4, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Haverhill High School Pool Opens

HAVERHILL- Mayor James J. Fiorentini and Haverhill Public Schools Superintendent Raleigh Buchanan welcomed swimmers, including members of the Haverhill High Boys Swim Team, back to the renovated and improved Charles White Memorial Swimming Pool and Haverhill High School today.

The Pool has seen several improvements as part of the $27 million upgrade to the Haverhill High School facilities, designed to eliminate any possible accreditation issues.  Improvements include better lighting, electrical and fire safety upgrades, increased handicapped accessibility and heating, cooling and plumbing improvements.  The pool received a 60-day temporary occupancy permit while other building issues are completed.  A high school swim meet regularly scheduled for today was held.

“I’m thrilled that the pool is open for swimmers, including our Haverhill High swim teams and the private clubs that pay to rent the pool from the City,” exclaimed Mayor Fiorentini.  “Many unforeseen construction problems and delays affected the pool building, but I’m glad the City staff, including the Fire Chief and his Inspectional Team, our new Permitting Ombudsman and Building Inspectors worked together to get the facility open as soon as possible,” added the Mayor.

“The White Pool is another signature milestone in our ongoing High School Renovation project,” announced Superintendent Buchanan.  “I’m looking forward to the Hillies’ Swim Team regaining a ‘home pool advantage’ for the rest of the season in an improved facility.”

The opening of the pool eliminates the need to bus swimmers to other practice facilities, and allows the City to receive rental payments from outside swim leagues.  The overall high school renovation is expected to be on time and on budget.