Submitted Photo
This state of the art water slide flume system will be installed at the Williamson Municipal Swimming Pool Complex before the end of the 2013 season if plans go accordingly. The slide will be approximately 35 ft. wide and nearly 30 ft. tall and is projected to be the most exciting of it’s kind in Southern WV. The purchase is a joint venture between the Williamson Board of Parks and Recreation and the Mingo County Commission.
Rachel Baldwin
Staff Writer
WEST WILLIAMSON — The Williamson Board of Parks and Recreation (WBPR) announces exciting projects that will be completed within the next 120 days.
Pierce Whitt, the Director of the WBPR told the Daily News that the communities in Mingo County and guests visiting the area are going to see several projects come to completion in the very near future. All of these projects will be taking place at the Williamson Municipal Swimming Pool Complex.
“First, the Park Board realized the need to provide much needed maintenance to the swimming pool complex facility we have in West Williamson,” stated Pierce. “Last year, we renewed our pool circulation system, power systems, repaired plumbing leaks, replaced ladders, and got the baby pool back in working order. We basically worked the entire season to get the pool back in tip-top shape again.”
Recently, the Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College (SWVCTC) sponsored several meetings designed to create vision and mission statements for recreation in and around Williamson. These meetings were attended by key members of groups and organizations who value the importance of recreation as it relates to physical fitness, economic expansion, and other fun activities that people of all ages can enjoy with their families and friends. A “top-ten” list of projects was created and goals were established to complete all projects by the year 2017.
In February of this year, Williamson Mayor Darrin McCormick and the City Council members voted to appoint John Mark Hubbard and Scott Poole to be at large members of the WBPR. This enables the Park Board to partner with the Mingo County Commission (MCC) as either member of the commission; Dave Baisden and Greg “Hootie” Smith are welcome to attend the meetings.
Whitt explained that the newly established partnership between the WPBR and the MCC is allowing the park board to build on the foundational things they accomplished in 2012.
“The Mingo County Commission realizes the importance of recreation,” said Whitt. “MCC Chairman John Mark Hubbard has become a board member and Commissioner Smith has played an active role in our recreation planning meetings. Their input and the financial support of the MCC have made all of these projects a reality.”
“Now, let me tell you what’s going on at the swimming pool complex.”
“We plan to complete roof renovation of the Community Center adjacent to the swimming pool complex. We are installing new ceiling and lighting systems in the Community Center that will create a more appealing facility for receptions, parties, meetings and events. Elegant moods will be created through the ability to dim lights and accent various parts of the facility.”
“Also on the list is the construction of an 18’ by 40’ foot covered facility on the picnic side of the pool deck that is under construction as we speak. This will allow parties to be undisturbed in the event of rainy summer weather. Removal of deteriorated fence slats at the pool and installation of attractive, translucent wind screens that will boast the “Williamson Municipal Swimming Pool” logo graphics on the outside will be a welcome change.”
“We’re in the process of replacing and repairing cement at the entrance of the swimming pool and bottom of the ramp at the Community Center. Renewed weatherproofing sealant will be applied to all decks and ramps at the center, and we’re pleased to replace a handicap lift to allow those with physical limitations and disabilities access to the pool facility, as well.”
“We’re so excited to announce our plans to purchase and install the largest most exciting slide flume system in Southern West Virginia. This slide system allows us to add a 4th flume later in the future if the demand meets our expectations.”
Whitt commented that as the spring showers and the school year ends, the future is truly bright for the residents of the Tug Valley area. The WBPR is creating momentum for improved facilities here and now.
“I want to thank the members of the Mingo County Commission for their support,” said Whitt. “Partnering with them has allowed us to achieve levels that would not have been possible without their assistance.”
Where did the coal and the money go? Were we sold out by pol.s
Did the coal owners steal all our resources? our minerals, our labor? What did the area get for all they took,are taking? looks like only a few greedy rich suits and their minions made out.