Announcements

• Date: January 17, 2025
   
  Town of Sudbury Provides Update on Atkinson Pool Closure and Next Steps
   
  Sudbury, MA – The Town of Sudbury is providing an update on the temporary closure of the Atkinson Pool due to water quality and air quality concerns. The safety and comfort of our swimmers remains our highest priority.
  
  Current Status
  Routine testing Wednesday 1/8/2025 identified elevated levels of chloramines in the pool water. Chloramines form when chlorine interacts with contaminants like body oils, sweat, and urine. Although common in pool environments, high levels can negatively affect air and water quality, necessitating corrective actions. Currently, chloramine levels are at 0.4 ppm Friday 1/17.  Maximum allowable chloramine levels are 0.2 ppm per state code.  The Pool will remain closed until further notice.
  Since the closure, the Town has taken the following steps:
  
  Shock Treatment:  This is a regular routine maintenance performed at all pools when the chloramine value exceeds .2.  Normally, shocking the pool brings down the chloramine level to an acceptable range. However, in this case, shocking did not bring the value < .2.  We then shocked another additional time and unfortunately got the same results. (Sometimes this process needs to be repeated to bring the value down) We are actively discussing a third treatment to see if that lowers the chloramine level.
  
  Ventilation Improvements: Operate the four large industrial ventilation fans continuously to improve air circulation. A technician will evaluate the air system, as proper exhaust is critical to addressing chloramine buildup.
  
  Consultation with Experts: Engaged pool maintenance professionals to explore short-term and long-term solutions. Notably, a comprehensive upgrade is planned for August, 2025 as approved by the May, 2024 Town Meeting.
  Next Steps
  To address the issues and facilitate reopening, the Town will:
  
  1. New UV Filtration System will be ordered.
  • The UV system, designed to break down chloramines, has been ordered and is expected to be installed within 3–4 weeks.
  • UV filtration effectively reduces chloramine levels and improves overall water quality.
  1. We will to continue to closely monitor the Chloramine levels
  • The pool must meet Board of Health (BOH) standards by maintaining chloramine levels below 0.2 ppm for reopening.
  Estimated Timeline
  
  • UV Installation: Targeted for completion by mid-to-late February.
  • Reopening: If chloramine levels meet BOH standards following the UV filter installation, the pool will reopen promptly.  In the meantime, staff will continue testing and consulting pool maintenance professionals to reduce chloramines and improve air quality before the UV system is installed. We continue to explore all other short term options so we can potentially open the pool earlier.
   
  Ongoing Updates
  
  The Town is committed to transparency and will provide updates via the Town’s website, email notifications, and social media platforms as new information becomes available.
  We recognize the inconvenience this closure causes, especially during the busy winter season. The safety of our patrons is our highest priority, and we thank you for your understanding as we address these challenges.
  
  
  Thank You for Your Patience.
  
  
  Warm regards,
  Dennis Mannone
  Director, Sudbury Park & Recreation
  Atkinson Pool