Partial Facilities Reopen at JCC

By Ruth Douglas
Shalom New Haven Staff


On Monday, June 26, JCC members embraced the long-awaited pool, racquetball courts, and Playscape reopening at the JCC on Amity Road. 
Steve Kovel has been a JCC member for more than 15 years, and was thrilled to be back playing racquetball. He remarked, “It’s a great place to be. Racquetball is my principal sport, so I’m glad to be back.” Freddie Caminear agreed. “We all couldn’t wait. LA Fitness is not the same,” said Caminear.
While the indoor pool was scheduled to reopen on Monday morning at the same time as the racquetball courts, members faced another brief delay as a new chlorinator that was installed in the pool needed to calibrate. However, that didn’t stop the water aerobics class from taking advantage of the reopened space. The class proceeded on the pool deck, where the ladies stayed dry while getting back into the rhythm for class the next morning. “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” said Brenda Coleman. “We’re very happy. Tomorrow is another day, and we’ll be ready to get in the pool.” Charlotte Bengtson commented, “This whole campus is great. It’s very welcoming and open. It’s a great facility—not just the pool.” The next day, the pool was fully operational and open for all swimmers.
The PAC Group LLC was selected through a bidding process to serve in the construction management role at the JCC. The PAC Group has been managing the ongoing renovations at the Mandell JCC of Greater Hartfort in recent years.
As the facility continues to be rebuilt, one rinsing shower, one accessible shower and three private 
co-ed changing rooms are available to members.