The reflecting pool at Alberta's legislature grounds opened on Monday for the first time this year, following a more than three-week delay caused by an apparent leak. Typically, the pool opens during the Victoria Day long weekend, but Alberta Infrastructure cited "unanticipated water loss" for the prolonged closure.
Pool Now Open for Public Use
The department confirmed that the pool is now available for public use, along with the nearby dome fountain and spray park, both of which opened in May. A mini-excavator had been seen on site at a hole in the deck near the pool's north end as recently as last week.
History of Water Issues
In 2020, the pool closed due to mechanical and filtration system issues that resulted in more than 60,000 litres of water being lost in previous years, much of it leaking onto 97 Avenue directly below. The pool reopened on Canada Day in 2024 after a $20-million overhaul of the three water features at the legislature grounds, first announced in May 2022. Costs were shared between the provincial government ($12 million) and the federal government ($8 million).
A Popular Summer Spot
Originally not intended for use by people when it was built in the 1970s, the pool has become a popular summer spot for Edmontonians to cool off. The recent repairs ensure that the water features can be enjoyed safely and efficiently throughout the season.
