Yesterday, the Department of Parks & Recreation held a blessing ceremony to celebrate the reopening of NAS Swimming Pool.

The pool has been closed for a $7.3 million renovation project that involved a total reconstruction of the facility, with only the pool basin remaining from the original 1940s facility.

The name “NAS” is derived from “Naval Air Station,” as the pool was among the facilities built during World War II to accommodate and train naval air groups during World War II.

NAS now meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) design standards and features a new classroom, pool deck, parking lot, filtration and circulation system, spectator bleachers, and locker and shower rooms.

The reopening event featured speakers, a blessing led by Kahu Smith Kaleohano and a ceremonial first plunge into the pool taken by students from the nearby Ke Ana La‘ahana Public Charter School.

NAS Swimming Pool is primarily an instructional facility. Programs will begin on Monday, Sept. 9. Recreational swimming opportunities will also be available twice a week once instructional programs begin.

For more information call 808-961-8697.

 

Photo credit: Office of Mayor Mitch Roth