Upper Dublin School District Plans $80K Replacement of Natatorium Starting Blocks
September 06, 2025 | Upper Dublin SD, School Districts, Pennsylvania
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The Upper Dublin School District Finance Committee convened on August 20, 2025, to discuss key updates and decisions regarding district finances and facilities. The meeting commenced with no announcements and proceeded to the approval of minutes from the previous meeting held on June 18, which were accepted unanimously by the committee members.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on the replacement of the natatorium starting blocks, which are now approximately 13 years old and nearing the end of their useful life. The current blocks have begun to deteriorate, prompting the need for an upgrade. Brandon Pierce, the district's swimming coach, provided insights into the replacement plan, highlighting the importance of modernizing the equipment to align with current swimming technology. The new starting blocks will feature a wedge for track starts and a backstroke wedge, enhancing the training experience for student-athletes.
The total cost for the new starting blocks is estimated at $80,799.70. This expense is included in the district's 2025-2026 general fund budget, with half of the cost being generously covered by a donation from the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). The committee expressed gratitude for this collaboration, which supports the district's commitment to providing quality facilities for its students.
Pierce also noted that the new blocks will be customizable, allowing for school branding and pride, and will be designed in the district's colors. The anticipated timeline for installation is approximately 12 weeks, with the installation process expected to be straightforward, requiring no major demolition.
The committee addressed questions regarding the integration of the new blocks with existing timing systems and warranty considerations. Pierce assured members that the new blocks would work seamlessly with the current setup and that the local vendor would be available for any future issues.
In conclusion, the committee moved to accept the donation from UDAC and expressed appreciation for the ongoing support from community partners. The meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to maintaining and enhancing its athletic facilities, ensuring that students have access to modern equipment for their training and competitions.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on the replacement of the natatorium starting blocks, which are now approximately 13 years old and nearing the end of their useful life. The current blocks have begun to deteriorate, prompting the need for an upgrade. Brandon Pierce, the district's swimming coach, provided insights into the replacement plan, highlighting the importance of modernizing the equipment to align with current swimming technology. The new starting blocks will feature a wedge for track starts and a backstroke wedge, enhancing the training experience for student-athletes.
The total cost for the new starting blocks is estimated at $80,799.70. This expense is included in the district's 2025-2026 general fund budget, with half of the cost being generously covered by a donation from the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). The committee expressed gratitude for this collaboration, which supports the district's commitment to providing quality facilities for its students.
Pierce also noted that the new blocks will be customizable, allowing for school branding and pride, and will be designed in the district's colors. The anticipated timeline for installation is approximately 12 weeks, with the installation process expected to be straightforward, requiring no major demolition.
The committee addressed questions regarding the integration of the new blocks with existing timing systems and warranty considerations. Pierce assured members that the new blocks would work seamlessly with the current setup and that the local vendor would be available for any future issues.
In conclusion, the committee moved to accept the donation from UDAC and expressed appreciation for the ongoing support from community partners. The meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to maintaining and enhancing its athletic facilities, ensuring that students have access to modern equipment for their training and competitions.
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