The County of Hawai’i Department of Parks & Recreation held a blessing ceremony Tuesday, Sept. 3 to celebrate the reopening of NAS Swimming Pool following a complete renovation of the Hilo facility.

The $7.3 million renovation of NAS Swimming Pool involved a total reconstruction of the facility, with only the pool basin remaining from the original 1940s facility. The name “NAS” is derived from “Naval Air Station,” as the pool was among the facilities built during World War II to accommodate and train naval air groups during World War II.

NAS now meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) design standards and features a new classroom, pool deck, parking lot, filtration and circulation system, spectator bleachers, and locker and shower rooms.

“With these extensive renovations, we are proud to be returning a beautiful facility to the community, and we are excited to have it serve Hawai’i County residents once again,” said Maurice Messina, Director of Parks & Recreation.

The reopening event featured speakers, a blessing led by Kahu Smith Kaleohanoand a ceremonial first plunge into the pool taken by students from the nearby Ke Ana La’ahana Public Charter School.

NAS Swimming Pool is primarily an instructional facility, and programs start Monday, Sept. 9. Recreational swimming opportunities will also be available Sept. 3-5 and twice a week once instructional programs begin. Visit the NAS Swimming Pool web page on the Parks and Recreation website for more information or call the pool directly at 808-961-8697.