CLS Projects Solutions, Inc. | Columbia University’s Pool Roars Into Action

16 Sep Columbia University’s Pool Roars Into Action

Posted at 11:10h in Commercial by admin

CLIENT: Columbia University
PROJECT Aquatic Center overhaul including pool restoration
TIMEFRAME: 12 weeks
SERVICES PROVIDED: General Contractor

The Situation:

Columbia University’s Aquatic Center suffered a malfunction in their pool filtration system, flooding the area and causing the pool’s concrete basin to lift up off its structural base. When the water subsided, the concrete basin resettled but severe cracks had formed in the base slab. In addition, after filling the pool, the university realized that the shift in the tile base could potentially cause harm to pool occupants.

The Challenge:

Completing the project in 12 weeks.

Work could not begin until the last day of classes in May and the pool had to be open in time for swim season in early August. While many saw this challenge to be impossible with such a short timeline, Lou Serrante saw an opportunity to champion this project and protect the University’s schedule.

The Solution:

Multiple work shifts and inventive scaffolding.

Lou’s pool reconstruction action plan included conducting multiple shifts (with the university’s approval for overtime work), designing a scaffolding system that allowed work to be done above and below the pool surface simultaneously,and keeping all parties apprised of the overall construction plan, progress, and tasks requiring completion using project management scheduling software and diagrammatic plans.

The Result:

Aquatic Center reopens swimmingly.

The pool, now featuring a customized Columbia University lion logo, opened on time. Lou’s solution-oriented approach was appreciated and lauded by the University.