New pool, maintenance facility in the works for Camp Medley

A new pool for Camp Medley isn’t just a dream. It’s become a necessity.

The pool at the camp was built in 1968, some say out of fear that the construction of the Mactaquac Dam upstream would impact the river as far down as Upper Gagetown. The river was the only swimming option at the camp at the time.

That river impact didn’t happen, but the camp got a pool with an expected lifespan of 30 years. That was 56 years ago.

“The cement is deteriorating,” said camp director John Galbraith, adding the six or seven inch walls are much thinner these days, the deck is wearing away, it is unheated and has accessibility issues, and there are holes in the pool wall.

“It was a great pool for its day,” said John. “But we want to be open to more user groups.”

What John has in mind, and what has been approved, is a pool that would serve both the camp and the community, since there is no public pool in the region.

The design looks nothing like a traditional pool. It allows for a “beach” style, barrier-free entry for those with mobility issues. It has no lip around the edge. It would include a shallow pool plus a 25-metre lap pool that would allow for swim teams and synchronized swimming. It would also have full bathroom and changing facilities. The design is three pools in one.

It would be built at the entrance to the camp so that public access would be limited to that area. 

“This is all so that we create opportunities, not limit them,” said John, adding the pool could be in use by 2026 if all goes well with fundraising.

Tagging along on the project is a new maintenance facility. The current building is just a shed. The new one would have a repair shop, storage for camp programs and equipment, and plenty of space. Together, the projects total $2.8 million — $2.45 million for the pool, and $350,000 for the maintenance building.

Since the plans were drawn up, John has been scouting for funding. He’s had meetings with both local and provincial government officials, as investment in rural infrastructure is a priority these days, as are programs for seniors and disabled members of the community. 

He hopes this fall to meet with foundations, corporations and individuals interested in investing in the camp.

What John is most excited about is the way in which doors have been opened. 

He attended a community meeting taking place at the camp recently, and was invited — on the spot — to make a presentation on the project. 

At the conclusion, a woman in attendance said, ‘I’m good at finding money and writing grant proposals. Can I do that for you?’

“It’s been one thing after another this whole way,” said John. “God is putting people in our path.”

You can help support the pool project by visiting the camp website and making a one-time donation or committing to $100 a month for two years. The aim is to recruit 100 donors to make that $2,400 pledge, thus laying a foundation of $240,000 to build upon.

Visit https://medley.campbraingiving.com/

PHOTO CAPTIONS:
1.  Computer rendering of the pool for Camp Medley.
2.  Camp Medley director John Galbraith points out the problems with the existing pool to Diocesan Council members during their meeting at the camp June 1.  After his presentation, council members gave John a round of applause.  McKnight photo
3.  Computer rendering of the pool for Camp Medley showing the changing and shower facilities.
4. Computer rendering of the pool for Camp Medley shows the three areas of the uniquely designed pool.