By Jean Brannum | jbrannum@queensledger.com

Councilmember Julie Won and Laguardia Community College President Kenneth Adams unveiled major refurbishment plans for the college’s pool made possible by Won securing $4.5 million in funding on Sept 19.

The funding will purchase a new roof for the pool building, air conditioning for the room, and a brand-new chiller to keep the water cool. Those who use the pool will enjoy a much more comfortable experience since many at the press conference were sweating. The pool is a place for exercise, youth and adult swimming lessons, and youth swim team practice. The updates will also increase the building’s energy efficiency by 50%.

“Our students are working hard to complete their certificates and earn their degrees, and we want to make sure they get to do so in facilities that are as safe and up-to-date as possible,” President Adams said.

Won, who completed part of her four-year degree at a local community college, said she was excited to provide funding that would update the hall.

“You have my commitment at LaGuardia Community College to make sure that your students are always amplified and uplifted, that your students are going to be the first in line for workforce development and job opportunities for training, as well as partnerships with unions and everything that we can possibly think of,” Won said.

The pool is part of Shenker Hall, which opened in 1971 as the college’s first building. The building holds classrooms, labs, offices, a cafeteria, a gym, a theater, and three daycare centers. The current cooling tower is prone to mechanical failures, and replacement parts are no longer available for the old equipment.

Construction is expected to begin in April of 2025 and conclude in early 2027.