Aquatics Centre

Boy wearing goggles in pool

The Pyramid Recreation Centre pool is undergoing significant upgrades.

The Aquatics Centre has been closed to the public since November 2024, to accommodate renovations to the space that would address safety concerns caused by saltwater and high humidity. These renovations were deemed essential to ensure the facility could be used safely and effectively by the community.

Due to unexpected recently discovered structural issues caused by saltwater and high humidity stemming from insufficiently sized HVAC equipment installed during the original construction, the renovation work is now expected to extend the closure until fall 2025.

The Town is hosting a drop-in Open House in the EndZone of the Pyramid Recreation Centre on Wednesday, June 18 from 5 to 7 PM. Residents will have the chance to observe the progress of the renovation to date and ask questions.

Questions and comments about the Aquatics Centre renovation can be directed to Stephanie Ische, Director of Community Services at sische@town.stmarys.on.ca.

Read our full media release for details.

Temporary pool closure updates

Please note that the Aquatics Centre will be closed for renovations starting Monday, November 11. The project is expected to last until July 2025.

The pool will be closed for the duration of the project, but the rest of the Pyramid Recreation Centre will be open and operating as usual.

Frequently asked pool closure questions

What initially caused the pool to require repairs?

The Aquatics Centre, which opened in 2008, initially operated using a salt chlorine-generation system, commonly known as a "salt water pool". This method was popular among municipal pools in the mid-2000s due to perceived health benefits and the belief that it would not adversely affect facility components. However, over time, many municipalities, including St. Marys, discovered that indoor salt water pools significantly deteriorated pool equipment and building infrastructure. Despite staff efforts to manage the issues, it became evident that transitioning away from the salt system was necessary.

In 2018, the Town converted the pool to a traditional chlorine system and implemented a comprehensive plan to replace damaged equipment and features within the natatorium. Additionally, it was recognized that the original construction did not include sufficient HVAC capacity to adequately maintain indoor air quality; the existing system only provided about half the required capacity.

The need for these upgrades has not been due to poor operating or maintenance practices. The Town adheres to a robust Asset Management Plan, ensuring diligent reinvestment in the facility. Staff have proactively maintained, replaced, or updated mechanical equipment according to schedule or when premature failures occurred due to the saline and excessively humid environment.

What is the reason for extending the pool closure?

March 26, 2025

The extension is due to the delay of the new HVAC unit, which is central to this renovation. The unit is custom-mounted on the roof and has a delivery timeline of 22 weeks (plus the timing to tender and award). Due to the condition of the natatorium, it was advised that the pool be shut down for safety and to prevent further degradation of the structure and equipment. This has necessitated the November start time. The project schedule was adapted to utilize the long lead time for the new HVAC unit effectively. Significant work has been required, and some has already been completed prior to the arrival of the new unit, including thorough investigations, shop drawings, demolition, sprinkler modifications, pool deck drain replacement, piping modifications, and preparation work.

Upon closing the pool, scaffolding was installed to allow for further in-depth investigation using lifts of the existing structure, walls, and piping (including destructive testing). During the investigation, additional issues within the natatorium were uncovered, such as corrosion on the structure, excessive soluble salt contamination, poor paint adhesion, excessive pitting of the sprinkler piping, improper paint usage, and moisture-damaged drywall. These unexpected items have added further time to the project schedule. Furthermore, it was communicated to the project team that the custom HVAC unit would be delayed by 2 months due to supply chain issues, resulting in a revised project turnover time. Each component of the facility repairs requires sufficient time to assess, diagnose, and properly repair. It is imperative that every factor is effectively managed to ensure the public will be able to enjoy this facility for years to come following these necessary improvements.

May 29, 2025

Due to unexpected recently discovered structural issues, the renovation work is now expected to extend the closure of the pool until fall 2025. 

The Aquatics Centre, opened in 2008, initially used a saltwater chlorine-generation system. While popular with municipal pools at the time, this system caused significant deterioration of equipment and infrastructure indoors. In response, the Town transitioned to a traditional chlorine system in 2018 and developed a plan to replace damaged equipment and improve air quality. The upgrades address humidity issues stemming from insufficiently sized HVAC equipment installed during the original construction in 2006. 

To address the issues caused by the saltwater and high humidity, the Pyramid Recreation Centre pool closed to the public in November 2024 for necessary renovations deemedrequired for the safe use of the facility. 

The project involves the installation of a new HVAC unit and exhaust systems to improve air quality. Additionally, repairs are being performed on various parts of the Aquatics Centre that have experienced wear and tear and salt damage. These upgrades not only aim to repair existing issues but also to future-proof the Aquatics Centre against similar challenges in the coming years.

Once renovations are complete, the Aquatics Centre staff will need a period of time to prepare the facility for public use by filling, heating and treating the pool and training lifeguards and staff. 

Will the Quarry open for the season early?

The St. Marys Quarry and Super Splash will not open early and is scheduled to officially open for the 2025 season on Friday, June 27. The Operations, Aquatics, and Super Splash teams have established this date based on a developed opening timeline for critical tasks required to prepare the Quarry for the season. This includes maintenance, setup of the Quarry and facilities, hiring and training of lifeguards and canteen staff, and installation of inflatables at the Super Splash Park.

Will swimming lessons be held at the Quarry this year instead?

Swimming lessons will not be offered at the Quarry during the Aquatics Centre's closure, as most levels of swimming lessons provided cannot be accommodated at the Quarry.

Additionally, in 2022, lessons were moved to the Aquatics Centre due to the Quarry's adjusted opening time, which changed from 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 a.m. after the Super Splash Park was established.

Swimming lessons and aquatics programs will resume once the Aquatics Centre reopens and dates and time will be announced through the Pyramid Recreation Facebook page and the Town’s website once confirmed.

Can I only receive a credit for programming and lessons to my ActiveNet account?

If you prefer not to use your ActiveNet credits when the pool reopens and would like to request a refund for unused swim passes or credits, please contact the Aquatics Department via email at aquatics@town.stmarys.on.ca.

Will the pool open in the fall, or is there a possibility the closure could be extended again?

While it is hoped that there will be no further delays, any further postponements would be essential to guarantee the project's successful completion, which remains the highest priority.

We are eagerly anticipating the reopening the upgraded and enhanced Aquatics Centre.

The Aquatics Centre features an indoor pool with four 25-metre-length lanes and an attached leisure pool. A ramp and wide steps into the pool make it accessible for all. A nearby splash pad is available to enjoy in the warmer weather.

The pool offers year-round programming and swimming lessons for all ages and abilities including private, semi-private, and group swimming lessons. Work your way up to becoming a Lifeguard with Lifesaving Society courses such as Bronze Medallion/Emergency First-Aid and Bronze Cross.

Want to become a lifeguard but don't know where to start? Sign up for the Leadership Aquatic Volunteer Program and gain valuable work experience and skills to become a swim instructor and lifeguard!

Swimming Lessons and Leadership Courses

Upcoming Lesson Registration Dates

Swimming Lessons will proceed once the Aquatics Centre reopens following renovations. Stay tuned for updates!

Lesson descriptions and registration links are available in the list below.

Group Lessons

We offer a variety of swimming lessons for children of all ages and abilities. View group lesson times on ActiveNet.

Parent & Tot 1

Enter and exit the water safety with tot
Readiness for submersion
Hold tot on front, eye contact
Hold tot on back, head and back support
Front float (face out), assisted
Back float, assisted
Float wearing PFD (assisted)
Arms: splashing, reaching, paddling, on front and back
Legs: tickling, splashing, kicking, on front and back

Parent & Tot 2

Entry from sitting position (assisted)
Exit the water (assisted)
Blow bubbles on and in water
Face wet and in water
Attempt to recover object below surface
Entry from sitting position wearing PFD and return (assisted)
Front float (face in) – assisted
Back float (assisted)
Kicking on front and back (assisted)
Surface passes with continuous contact
Water Smart message: Within Arms’ Reach
Water Smart message: Wear a Lifejacket
Water Smart message: Swim to Survive

Parent & Tot 3

Jump entry (assisted)
Entry and submerge from sitting position (assisted)
Exit the water (unassisted)
Hold breath underwater (assisted)
Attempt to open eyes underwater
Attempt to recover object from bottom
Standing jump entry, return to edge (assisted)
Jump entry and float wearing PFD (assisted)
Front and back “starfish” floats (assisted)
Front and back “pencil” floats (assisted)
Kicking on front and back (assisted)
Underwater passes
Water Smart message: Within Arms’ Reach
Water Smart message: Wear a Lifejacket
Water Smart message: Swim to Survive

Preschool 1

Enter and exit shallow water (assisted)
Jump into chest deep water (assisted)
Face in water
Blow bubbles in water
Float on front 3 sec. assisted
Float on back 3 sec. assisted
Safe movement in shallow water wearing PFD
Glide on front 3 m assisted
Glide on back 3 m assisted

Water safety message: Within arms’ reach
Water safety message: Wear a lifejacket

Preschool 2

Enter and exit shallow water wearing PFD
Jump into chest-deep water
Submerge
Submerge and exhale 3 times
Float on front 3 sec wearing PFD or with buoyant aid
Float on back 3 sec wearing PFD or with buoyant aid
Roll laterally front to back and back to front, wearing a lifejacket
Glide on front 3 m wearing PFD or with buoyant aid
Glide on back 3 m wearing PFD or with buoyant aid
Flutter kick on back with buoyant aid 5 m

Water safety message: Within arms’ reach
Water safety message: Wear a lifejacket

Preschool 3

Jump into deep water wearing PFD, return and exit
Sideways entry wearing PFD
Hold breath underwater 3 sec
Submerge and exhale 5 times
Recover object from bottom in waist deep water
Back float; roll to front; swim 3 m
Front on float 5 sec
Front on back 5 sec
Roll laterally front to back and back to front
Glide on front 3 m
Glide on back 3 m
Flutter kick on back 5 m
Flutter kick on front 5 m

Water safety message: Within arms’ reach
Water safety message: Wear a lifejacket

Preschool 4

Jump into deep water, return and exit
Sideways entry
Tread water 10 sec wearing a PDF
Open eyes underwater
Recover object from bottom in chest deep water
Wearing a PFD, sideways entry into deep water; tread 15 sec; swim/kick 5 m
Front float; roll to back swim 5 m
Glide on side 3 m
Flutter kick on front 7 m
Flutter kick on back 7 m
Flutter kick on side 5 m
Front crawl 5 m wearing PFD

Water safety message: Within arms’ reach
Water safety message: Wear a lifejacket

Preschool 5

Forward roll entry wearing PFD
Tread water 10 sec
Submerge and hold breath 5 sec
Recover object from bottom in chest-deep water
Wearing PFD, sideways entry into deep water; tread 20 sec.; swim/kick 10 m
Whip kick in vertical position 20 sec with PFD or buoyant aid
Front crawl 5 m
Back crawl 5 m
Interval training: 4 x 5 m flutter kick on back with 30 sec. rests

Water safety message: Within arms’ reach
Water safety message: Wear a lifejacket

Swimmer 1

Enter and exit shallow water
Jump into chest deep water
Jump into deep water wearing a PFD
Tread water 30 sec. wearing a PFD
Hold breath underwater 5 sec.
Submerge and exhale 5 times
Open eyes underwater
Float on front 5 sec.
Float on back 5 sec.
Roll laterally front to back and back to front
Glide on front 3 m
Glide on back 3 m
Glide on side 3 m
Flutter kick on front 5 m
Flutter kick on back 5 m
Front crawl 5 m wearing PFD
Water safety message: swim with a buddy
Water safety message: wear a lifejacket
Water safety message: check the ice
Water safety message: swim to survive

Swimmer 2

Jump into deep water, return and exit
Sideways entry wearing a PFD
Tread water 15 sec.
Recover object from bottom in chest-deep water
Wearing PFD, jump into deep water, tread 30 sec. and swim/kick 15 m
Flutter kick on front 10 m
Flutter kick on back 10 m
Flutter kick on side 10 m
Whip kick in vertical position 30 sec. with aid
Front crawl 10 m
Back crawl 10 m
Interval training: 4 x 5 m flutter kick with 20 sec. rests

Water safety message: swim with a buddy
Water safety message: wear a lifejacket
Water safety message: check the ice
Water safety message: swim to survive

Swimmer 3

Kneeling dive into deep water
Forward roll entry into deep water
Tread water 30 seconds
Handstand in shallow water
Front somersault in water
Jump into deep water, tread 30 sec and swim/kick 25 m
Flutter kick on back 5 m; reverse direction and flutter kick on front 5 m
Flutter kick on front 5 m; reverse direction and flutter kick on back 5 m
Whip kick on back 10 m
Front crawl 15 m
Back crawl 15 m
Interval training; 4 x 15 m flutter kick with 20 sec. rests

Water safety message: swim with a buddy
Water safety message: wear a lifejacket
Water safety message: check the ice
Water safety message: swim to survive

Swimmer 4

Standing dive into deep water
Tread water 1 min
Swim underwater 5 m
Swim to survive: roll entry into deep water, tread 1 min swim 50 m
Whip kick on front 15 m
Breaststroke arms drill 15 m
Front crawl 25 m
Back crawl 25 m
Interval training: 4 x 25 m front or back crawl with
20 sec. rests
Sprint front crawl 25 m

Water safety message: swim with a buddy
Water safety message: wear a lifejacket
Water safety message: check the ice
Water safety message: swim to survive

Swimmer 5

Shallow dive into deep water
Tuck jump (cannonball) into deep water
Jump entry into deep water, tread 2 min.
Stationary eggbeater kick 30 sec.
Back somersault in water
Roll entry into deep water, tread 90 sec. and swim 75 m
Breaststroke 25 m
Front crawl 50 m
Back crawl 50 m
Head-up front crawl 10 m
Interval training: 4 x 50 m front or back crawl with 30 sec rests
Interval training: 4 x 15 m breaststroke with 30 sec rests
Sprint front crawl 25 m
Sprint back crawl 25 m
Water smart message: swim with a buddy
Water smart message: wear a lifejacket
Water smart message: check the ice
Water smart message: swim to survive

Swimmer 6

Stride entry into deep water
Compact jump into deep water
Legs only surface support 45 seconds
Swim underwater 10 m to recover object
Eggbeater kick on back 15 m
Scissor kick 15 m
Breaststroke 50 m
Front crawl 100 m
Back crawl 100 m
Head-up swim 25 m
Interval training: 4 x 25 m breaststroke with 30 sec. rests
Sprint breaststroke 25 m
Workout 300 m

Water smart message: swim with a buddy
Water smart message: wear a lifejacket
Water smart message: check the ice
Water smart message: swim to survive

Rookie Patrol (Swimmer 7)

Head-up front crawl or breaststroke- 25 m
Scull in ready position- 30 sec.
Carry object (2.3 kg)- 15 m
Surface dives, foot-first & head-first
Lifesaving kick- 25 m (egg beater, scissor, inverted scissor, whip kick)
Inflate clothing/use as buoyant assist
Obstacle swim- 25 m
Front crawl- 50 m
Back crawl- 50 m
Breaststroke- 50 m
Fitness training: 350 m workout (3 times)
Swim 100 m in 3 min
Assess conscious victim
Contacting EMS
Care for external bleeding
Look & see
Victim simulation
Victim recognition
Rescue drill: throw aid to target- 30 sec

Ranger Patrol (Swimmer 8)

Somersault sequence, forward & backwards
Stride entry & swim head-up – 25 m. Ready position
Eggbeater kick on back- 25 m
Support object (2.3 kg)- 1 min
Search & recover object
Remove conscious victim
Front crawl- 75 m
Back crawl- 75 m
Breaststroke- 75 m
Lifesaving medley- 100 m (3 times)
Swim 200 m in 6 min
Assess unconscious breathing victim
Care for victim in shock
Obstructed airway- conscious victim
Victim simulation
Victim recognition
Victim avoidance
Rescue with buoyant aid 20 m

Star Patrol (Swimmer 9)

Entries with aids- at least 2
Head-up swim (25 m) & scull in ready position
Defense methods- front, side & rear
Eggbeater kick- travel, change direction & height
Carry object (4.5 kg)- 25 m
Remove unconscious victim
Search to recover object
Turn & support victim face-up- shallow water
Front crawl- 100 m
Back crawl- 100 m
Breaststroke- 100 m
Fitness training: 600 m workout (3 times)
Swim 300 m in 9 min
Care for bone or joint injury
Care for respiratory emergency- asthma or allergic reaction
Locate & describe submerged object
Rescue with towing aid- 20 m

Private Lessons

Want one-on-one attention? Our certified instructor can help kids and adults alike learn everything from the basics to advanced techniques. View private lesson times on ActiveNet.

Semi-private Lessons

Leadership Aquatic Volunteer Program

This new opportunity includes supporting a swim lesson class under the direction of an instructor. Aquatic volunteers must be a minimum of 14 years of age, with current Bronze Medallion and Emergency First Aid.

Benefits of volunteering:

Gain valuable work experience and skills to become a swim instructor and lifeguard
Earn discounts towards aquatic leadership courses
A chance to give back to your community and earn high school volunteer hours
Take advantage of future aquatic job opportunities with the Town of St. Marys
Opportunity to join the lifeguard team while they train

How to become a volunteer:

Visit www.townofstmarys.com/careers
Fill out the volunteer registration form
Staff will advise on process going forward after receiving the registration form

How to earn discounts towards aquatic courses:

Volunteer 30 hours and you will receive 40% off Bronze Cross.
Volunteer 30 hours and you will receive 40% off Swim Instructors Course.
Volunteer time is flexible, you can volunteer before, after or during the Bronze Cross courses to extend this discount to you.

Aquatics Programs

Get active at the Pyramid Recreation Centre with a variety of aquatics programs including open swims, lane swims and aquafit!

Upcoming Program Registration Dates

Please note that current aquatics programs are currently not running while the Aquatics Centre is temporarily closed for renovations. The project is expected to last until fall 2025

Program descriptions and registration links are available in the list below.

Aquafit

Get energised, burn calories, and improve your overall fitness with this moderate to high intensity cardio water workout. Exercising in the water lowers the impact of high intensity movements while creating a natural resistance that will build your muscle strength.

View Aquafit times on ActiveNet.

Lanes

Lanes are set out for lap swimming, providing an excellent opportunity to get fit.

View Lane Swim times on ActiveNet.

Open Swim

Bring the family for an open swim in our indoor pool. Enjoy deep and shallow ends as well as an attached leisure pool. A ramp and wide steps into the pool make it accessible for all.

All children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission Policy in effect.

View Open Swim times on ActiveNet.

Pool Rentals

Rent the pool for your next event! Check availability and book online through ActiveNet.

Dates and Times

Starting September 23, 2023

Saturdays from 3:00 to 4:00 pm
Sundays from 3:00 to 4:00 pm and 4:15 to 5:15 pm

*Please book your rental a minimum of two weeks in advance

View Pool Rentals dates and times on ActiveNet.

Fees

$130.44/hour, up to 60 people

Admission Policy

7 years and under

Regardless of swimming ability, children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 12 years of age and responsible for their direct supervision, with a maximum of 2 children per parent/guardian and must remain in the shallow end. Parent/guardian must be in bathing attire and within arm’s reach of the child(ren) at all times in and out of the water. Lifejackets are available for those 7 and under, but not required.

8 to 10 years

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 12 years of age and responsible for their direct supervision, with a maximum of 2 children for per parent/guardian and must remain in the shallow end. Maximum number of children increases to 8 bathers to one parent/guardian (8:1) if approved life-jackets are worn by all non-swimmers in their charge. They must remain in the shallow end.

Parent/guardian must be in bathing attire and within arm's reach of the child(ren) at all times in and out of the water.

Child can complete swim test: Admitted unaccompanied.

11+ years

Admitted unaccompanied. Recommended to always swim with a buddy.

Definitions

Swim Test: Tread water for 30 seconds and swim 2 widths continuously.
Direct Supervision - Able to render immediate assistance, 'within arm's reach'.
Guardian - A person of at least 12 years of age who is responsible for the children.
Swim attire - Bathing attire is used for the purpose of swimming only. T-shirts are permitted. Undergarments, cut-offs and street clothes are not permitted.

Lifejacket lending program

We are pleased to announce that, thanks to a generous donation from the Cook-Rees Memorial Fund for Water Search and Safety we are offering a free lifejacket lending program.

This lifejacket lending program is a public service to provide lifejackets for people to stay safe while they are participating in water activities but may not have access to lifejackets.

Lifejackets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. The lending period is for one week. An adult (18+) must sign out the lifejackets and complete a waiver of responsibility. Lifejackets are inspected and sanitized between loans. If you are interested in borrowing a lifejacket, simply email us at aquatics@town.stmarys.on.ca. Pick up and drop off is at the Pyramid Recreation Centre.

Lifejacket inventory:

Lifejacket	Weight/Size	Quantity
Infant	20-30 lbs.	6
Child	30-60 lbs.	6
Junior	60-90 lbs.	6
Adult	(XXS/XS)	4
Adult	(S/M)	4
Adult	(L/XL)	4
Adult	(XXL/XXXL)	4

Stay a float, wear a lifejacket!

Admission rates

Pay per visit

Child/Youth (3-18): $4.10
Adult (19-64): $5.75
Older Adult (65+): $5.55
Family (2 adults and 3 children): $17.30

Passes

Passes
Number of passes	Child/youth 3 - 18 years	Adult 19 - 64 years	Older adult 65+ years
15 passes	$55.37	$77.64	$74.90
30 passes	$108.29	$151.85	$146.47
60 passes	$211.66	$296.78	$286.30

Admission Policy

7 years and under

8 to 10 years

Parent/guardian must be in bathing attire and within arm's reach of the child(ren) at all times in and out of the water.

Child can complete swim test: Admitted unaccompanied.

11+ years

Admitted unaccompanied. Recommended to always swim with a buddy.

Definitions

Swim Test: Tread water for 30 seconds and swim 2 widths continuously.
Direct Supervision - Able to render immediate assistance, 'within arm's reach'.
Guardian - A person of at least 12 years of age who is responsible for the children.
Swim attire - Bathing attire is used for the purpose of swimming only. T-shirts are permitted. Undergarments, cut-offs and street clothes are not permitted.

Be "water smart"

Water safety basics are key to preventing an emergency in or around the water. Check the following resources to learn more:

Frequently asked questions

How do I use your online registration portal?

Registration instructions and tutorials are available on our Register for Programs page.

Can I book a room with my pool rental?

Yes, room bookings are available. Please contact Guest Service at 519-284-2160 or prccsr@town.stmarys.on.ca.

Can I use a locker to store my items?

Yes, lockers are available. Please bring your own lock.

What if I don’t have a credit card or access to the internet? How do I register?

Call us at 519-284-2160 and we will assist you.

What is your cancellation policy?

We require a minimum of 24 hours notice to avoid being charged for the program. To cancel your program, please email aquatics@town.stmarys.on.ca or call 519-284-2160 to speak directly to a Guest Services Attendant.

What equipment is available for my swim?

We have noodles, kick boards, pull buoys and lifejackets available to use.

Can I use the sauna?

Yes, the sauna is open.

Financial assistance

Please visit our Financial Assistance and Subsidy Information page to learn more.