Embedded Files
9/19/2020 by Matthew Spalding
At the July General Membership meeting, the community voted to authorize the restructuring of loans and to finance a pool complex expansion.
There has been a conversation about a new pool in Masthope for many years. In 2012, committees began working on different concepts... adding a pool at the beach, building a pool complex at the shale pit, and adding splash pads, large slides and zero entry pools to the existing complex. This year, a solidified plan for the expansion of one of the community's most popular amenities is manifesting!
How Are We Paying For It?
How Are We Paying For It?
In 2023, the community will pay off a combined loan which encompasses the Lodge, Beach House, and Ski loans. Several years ago, the Board took advantage of lower interest rates to restructure these loans, allowing them to be paid off more quickly, while saving on interest and fees. The board voted in July of 2020 to take a similar approach with regard to a pool complex expansion. Interest rates are low and the community is financially stable.
The concept would be to refinance the existing loan in combination with the pool project. While this will extend the length of the loan, it may have a positive impact on annual assessments. For example... the amount owners currently pay for the payment of the existing loan may be reduced, and also includes the installation of an expanded pool complex. Owners currently pay approximately $322 annually to pay the loan. With refinancing, management is able to reduce that payment to $250 and construct a new pool facility simultaneously. The end number will vary with the scope of the project.
What Does The Project Include?
What Does The Project Include?
An additional pool similar in size to the existing pool
The pool is a comprehensive design based on a resort type pool with a utilitarian base. The concept for this pool is to be more of a relaxed area or adult driven pool.
Items integrated into the new pool:
Zero entry walk in section with shallow swimming area for children
Ramp entry for handicap and easy access
In-pool seating and several areas for lounging
General swim area with depth ranging from 3’6” to 6’6” to allow for swim team activities.
Potential for shaded areas within the pool
Improvements to the existing pool area
The concept for this pool is to be “activity based”
What's happening to the existing pool area:
Installation of a large new slide, with the possibility for an additional (if space allows)
The small existing slides are proposed to be moved to shallower water to allow for access by younger swimmers
The existing pool will be upgraded with modern pumps, heat, and sanitation equipment
Decking area will be refurbished
Diving board will remain
Existing wading pool will remain
A new "Splash Pad"
The proposed location is to be near the existing wading pool. To accomplish this, a retaining wall will be built.
The size will be determined by the construction of the retaining wall.
Elements of the "Splash Pad" will be both ground based and surface mounted above ground elements.
Enhanced shaded areas
Large areas incorporating shade sails are included in this project.
Shade sail areas will be included in the new pool area along with regular umbrellas.
Additional umbrellas will be added to the existing pool area.
Improved "Tiki Bar" area
The "Tiki Bar" area will feature additional table seating and group seating consisting of Adirondack type chairs with small tables to allow people to congregate.
This area will be served by wait staff.
Relocating the existing pump house
Currently, the pool's equipment building is located adjacent to the wading pool.
The new plan will relocate this equipment to another existing structure behind the lodge.
This will allow the old pump house to then be utilized as another bar/service area.
Aerial view of the pool in the Buck Hill Falls community. The new Masthope pool will feature a similarly shaped pool, with an alcove for steps and in-pool seating.
The existing slides will be located to the shallow section of the pool.
Mineola Pool: An example of the type of large waterslide proposed for the deep end of the existing pool.
What is the Current Status of the Project? (As of August 21, 2020)
What is the Current Status of the Project? (As of August 21, 2020)
Over the last several weeks, the final project development has come a long way. Management has met with contractors, worked with engineers, met with township officials, and heard feedback from the membership. Using all of these factors, they have come to the point of introducing the final pool design for approval from the Board of Directors, which will then allow the bidding process to begin. All contractors agree they would like to be working on the site and pool as quickly as possible to assure a Spring 2021 opening.
As we move forward, there will inevitably be additional changes. As a community, we must always be considerate of the desires of others and the practicality of operations. We truly believe this project encompasses something for everyone.
Proposed Opening:
Proposed Opening:
Late Spring 2021
Late Spring 2021
A larger scale sketch of the pool plans are available here.
Updates on the project can be found on masthope.org under "Property Owners."
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