To date, Devon Pool improvements have focused on replacing the service buildings and upgrades to the main pool and diving well, and now it’s time to consider options for the toddler pool. The City’s Parks & Recreation Department has selected MSA Design to undertake a design process. The first phase included reaching out to the community for input. The design team made appearances at Devon Pool in July 2024 to survey pool users. Additionally, an online survey was made available to the community. If all goes according to schedule, the detailed design work will be completed in time to bid the project for construction following the close of the 2025 pool season.
In true UA-style, the response was impressive, with more than 400 residents completing the online survey. Some clear themes emerged from this data.
When asked what residents like about the existing toddler pool:
- Many appreciate that the toddler pool is separate from the main pool, providing a safe environment for younger children.
- Many believe the toddler pool is spacious enough for multiple families to enjoy simultaneously, with appropriate depths for toddlers through older preschoolers.
- Patrons appreciate Devon Pool’s quiet and calm environment, and like the toddler pool’s simplicity and traditional design.
- They appreciate the availability of shade, comfortable seating, and a relaxed atmosphere around the pool, which makes for a pleasant experience for both children and parents.
Some areas identified for improvement include:
- A desire for enhanced accessibility and safety, through the potential addition of features such as zero-depth entry and minimizing trip hazards around the pool area.
- A need for some age-appropriate play features and activities for the toddlers to enjoy.
- A desire for better integration with the main pool area for parents with toddlers and older children.
Combined, the feedback is indicating a desire to preserve Devon Pool’s quiet, more traditional charm, while incorporating some thoughtful updates that will enhance the toddler area’s functionality.
A series of community engagement opportunities will be provided to allow residents to have an opportunity to share their ideas and concerns and provide feedback.
Parks & Rec Advisory Board
Monday, October 28, 2024 | 6:30 pm
Municipal Services Center
Parks & Rec staff and MSA Design presented the findings gathered from the community about Devon Pool, features they feel could be improved, and ideas for future enhancements.
City Council
Monday, November 4, 2024 | 7 pm
Municipal Services Center
UA Parks & Rec staff shared a comprehensive overview of the feedback gathered from the community. The presentation included high-level concepts from MSA Design.
Based on this community input, UA Parks & Rec worked with our consultant, MSA Sport, to develop a concept for the replacement of the toddler pool feature. The concept would work within a similar footprint to the current pool, while adding several enhancements, such as:
- A zero entry to allow for easier access for all users.
- Low spray elements to add an interactive feature to the pool.
- The gutter of the new pool would be designed for easier access, while still providing a place for care givers to sit on the edge.
- The surrounding deck would be replaced.
- The benches would be replaced with a better variety of seating options.
- A fence would be provided between the toddler pool and the main pool. This is a State requirement as is a separate filtration system for the toddler pool.
By working within the current footprint, the new concept would preserve the existing shade structures and trees. The design team is also exploring the possibility of adding steps into the main pool for easier access for users that do not feel comfortable using the ladders.
Overall, the design concept would maintain Devon’s current charm, while also providing thoughtful updates that enhance its appeal and functionality for families with young children. Balancing these desires will be key in the renovation process. A detailed design will be completed in early 2025 with the renovation scheduled to begin at the conclusion of the 2025 swim season.
MSA Design to develop final design and drawings for the improvements of Devon Pool
UA Parks & Rec to send project out for contractor bids
Construction begins at Devon Pool at the conclusion of the 2025 swim season
Construction finished at Devon Pool in time for the start of the 2026 swimming season
Proposed design improvements for the toddler area of Devon Pool that were presented to Upper Arlington City Council on November 4, 2024