San Juan begins Natatorium renovation as part of Central Park Phase 3

During the construction period, the Natatorium’s administrative offices will remain operational. However, all pool-related services will be suspended while the improvements are underway, as a safety measure for staff and the public.

By THE STAR STAFF

San Juan Mayor Miguel A. Romero Lugo announced the start of the remodeling and renovation of the San Juan Natatorium, a project that is part of Phase 3 of the rehabilitation of Dr. Hernán Padilla Central Park. The initiative represents an estimated investment of $11,670,965 and aims to modernize and strengthen one of the city’s most important sports and recreational facilities.

“The largest percentage of this investment comes from the Municipality of San Juan, which reflects our direct commitment to rehabilitating essential public facilities. We are allocating municipal funds responsibly to ensure safe, functional, and modern spaces that will serve our people for many years,” said Romero Lugo.

Of the total investment, 74% comes from San Juan’s general municipal funds, amounting to $8,651,505.64. The remaining portion is supported by federal funds, including $2,717,513.42 from FEMA and $301,945.94 from CDBG-DR. This phase continues earlier rehabilitation efforts at Central Park and is part of a comprehensive strategy to modernize the park’s sports and recreational infrastructure. Construction is expected to last approximately 12 months and will be carried out in phases, beginning with interior work and later addressing roof-related improvements.

During the construction period, the Natatorium’s administrative offices will remain operational. However, all pool-related services will be suspended while the improvements are underway, as a safety measure for staff and the public.

The scope of work includes major upgrades to the pool and bleacher areas, such as the replacement of the metal roof, lighting fixtures, laminated glass, handrails, drainage channels, non-slip finishes, and structural anchors, as well as the replacement of ceiling gypsum board. In the mechanical room, work will include new acoustic materials, lighting, and mechanical pumps.

Additional improvements will be made to the main lobby, where floors will be prepared and finished with epoxy paint. The gymnasium will receive new ceiling acoustics, air conditioning units, gypsum board, and carpeting. Hallways will see the replacement of rolling doors, lighting fixtures, and flashing elements.

On the second level, upgrades will include corridor and restroom improvements, such as new fire hose cabinets, decorative wall panels, lighting, ceiling acoustics, and epoxy floor finishes. Concession areas will also receive new ceiling acoustics as part of the modernization process.

Exterior work will include the demolition and reconstruction of ramps, plastering improvements, replacement of fencing, spotlight-style lighting, exterior surface preparation and painting, new plycem roof covers and fascias, galvanized steel gates, water piping, crack repairs, concrete sidewalks, signage, and the replacement of chillers and water heaters.

“We understand that the temporary closure of the pool represents an adjustment for our users, but these improvements are necessary to ensure first-class facilities. We are working in a planned and responsible manner to return to the city a renovated, safe Natatorium ready to serve for many more years,” Romero Lugo added.

The project team includes CJ Quiñones Engineering, PSC as designer; Integra Design Group, PSC overseeing inspections; JM Caribbean Builders, Corp. as contractor; and Slocum Ventures, LLC as project manager.