The County of Hawai’i’s Charles “Sparky” Kawamoto Swim Stadium in Hilo reopened on Saturday, Dec. 14, following the completion of repairs to the facility’s pool pump.

The stadium had been closed since Oct. 14 for planned repairs to the pool pump’s bearings and mechanical seal. After the pump was removed and disassembled, additional repairs were needed, resulting in a longer closure than originally anticipated.

“Our administration is committed to improving and maintaining access to quality recreation,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “That’s why from day one we asked for a completion date of these repairs, and we are excited to join the community in celebrating the pool’s reopening.”

Jon Hayashida, swim coach for the Hilo Aquatic Club, praised the completion of the project, stating, “Mayor Kimo is already living up to his promise of working and communicating with our community. We are so happy that our youth swimmers can return to the pool.”

During the closure, the Department of Parks & Recreation also performed additional maintenance, including replacing faulty lamps in the pool and bleacher areas.

For information about County of Hawai’i aquatics schedules, programs, and facilities, visit: Hawai’i County Aquatics.