Everyone into the pool
Runnels Pool renovations almost complete

Manny Carrillo hangs from scaffolding at Herold Runnel Pool while painting the ceiling over the diving pool Tuesday afternoon. The facility is being renovated and could be open in the spring time, but a set time frame is not availible. [Photo by Daniel Zollinger/Independent]

By Kevin Killough
Staff writer

GALLUP — City workers are still drowning in scaffolding as renovations continue at the Harold Runnels Pool, but the end is now in sight. Recreational Services Director Esco Chavez estimates the renovations will be complete just in time for summer.

“We’re shooting to open by late April or early May,” Chavez says.

The building that contains the pool is made of concrete walls that are held together with metal plates. When the concrete that fills the seams between parts began cracking and falling off, the city looked into the safety of the building.

“It was in good working shape,” Chavez says.

Once the building was found to be structurally sound, plans were made for a full renovation. With an average of 35,000 visitors every year, it appeared to be a good investment for the city. The Rosebrough Administration approved $400,000 for the project.

In addition to repairing the concrete seams, the crews are regrouting the pool and replacing the tiles around the edges. The steam room is getting fully retiled, and the locker rooms are getting some new heaters and various other cosmetic repairs. Finally, the entire structure, inside and out, is getting repainted.

“It’s the first renovation in 28 years,” Chavez said.

City Manager Gerald Herrera said that the city has received a few complaints from residents eager to have the work complete.

“I believe they’ll be quite pleased with the results. It’ll have the new facility look and feel,” Herrera said.

The cost to use the pool will be set at $3 for adults and $2 for children and seniors. Chavez said there will be other discounts for disabled veterans.

Murphy’s Builders is the contractor for the project.