The City of New Martinsville Planning Commission, City Council, and Parks and Recreation Commission are exploring the possibility of the pool being named as a potential Brownfields Project. According to the EPA, a Brownfield is a property or site where the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant.

A grant program that is currently offered and monitored by Marshall and West Virginia Universities would test areas of the pool structure for potential contaminants, such as asbestos, to determine if it would qualify for additional available Brownfield funding.

If deemed a qualifying project, potential grant monies could aid with the existing structure being razed and the land being repurposed. The goal of all the groups involved is to offer a new and inviting look to Bruce Park, while still maintaining some of the nostalgia of the old pool structure.

A dry deck fountain area, as shown in the picture, would be installed. This would offer fun and relief from the heat on warm summer days. The goal would be to retain the existing globe lights and front entrance to pay homage to Bruce Pool. The art that is currently found over the windows of the pool structure would still be able to be displayed around the park. In addition, pictures and information about the history of the pool will be incorporated in the new design.

This project allows for the possibility of new memories to be made while preserving the history of Bruce Pool.

(“CONCEPT AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY MAURO MORO”)