Base pool becomes example of C3 initiative

  • Published
  • By Elizabeth Brooks
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The base pool on Avenue H has become the latest beneficiary of the cost conscious culture initiative after the recent completion of a resurfacing project estimated to save the Air Force $350,000 over the next 15 years.

The resurfacing project which began in mid-May and took two weeks to complete, cost nearly $80,000.

Infrastructure maintenance is one of the most expensive, yet necessary, endeavors on the base.
 
It is up to Mark McBurnett, 82nd Civil Engineering Squadron director, to develop creative and innovative ways of maximizing the budget to ensure that standards are maintained. During analysis of the civil engineering annual budget, the yearly pool resurfacing expense was an issue worth looking into to save money.
 
"Year after year, the pools have to be drained and resurfaced, costing the Air Force $25,000 for each application," McBurnett said.
 
After market research, a new pool surface product called "Diamond Brite" was discovered. The marble-based aggregate made with natural quartz, one of nature's hardest and purest minerals, does not have to be reapplied every year.

"When we can use a product that wears 10-15 times longer than paint and saves $170,000-$270,000, we are going to be interested," said McBurnett.
 
Along with saving money, the new surface has additional benefits that exceed those of traditional pool surface products. The new surface, unlike past surfaces, is unaffected by harsh pool chemicals and resists permanent staining. It also has an improved bond that reduces water penetration.

Maintenance of the pool will also be less time consuming, due to algae and other microorganisms having difficulty adhering to the surface.

Finally, safety is an added benefit because although the surface looks shiny, it is slip resistant.

The quality of the pool is seen by McBurnett as first-class.

"The pool looks like a resort quality product instead of a painted product," McBurnett said.

The newly completed pool opened Memorial Day weekend and is now open for the summer season.