South Oshawa Pool Project

The South Oshawa Community Centre (SOCC) pool (1455 Cedar St.) is temporarily closed for essential repairs to ensure safe operation. As a result, aquatic programs at SOCC will be suspended until repairs are completed.

What's included in the project?

The reconstruction includes the pool and related structures, along with necessary upgrades to the sprinkler system to meet Ontario Building Code requirements. By combining both projects, we aim to reduce disruptions and complete the work more efficiently.

Communications

Update 8: South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project

The South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project continues to advance, with several key milestones achieved since our last update. We appreciate the community's continued patience and support as work moves forward.

Project Status:

Work has advanced across several areas of the project.

Fire Suppression System
Installation of the steel catwalk has been substantially completed. The fire suppression system, along with its associated mechanical and electrical components, is also substantially complete, allowing work to continue throughout the pool area.

Interior Restoration
The architectural wood slat ceiling has now been fully installed. Tile removals have been completed, polyurethane injection work beneath the pool slab has been completed, and concrete restoration and repair work is underway. Tile reinstallation has begun along the east elevation of the pool deck, and installation of the mortar bed, marking continued progress in restoring the pool area.

Next Steps:

Crews will continue concrete forming and pouring for the new drainage system while repairing underground piping and replacing pool drains throughout the facility. Tile installation will continue on the pool deck and within the east viewing gallery as reconstruction work progresses. Once construction activities are complete, the reconstructed pool will undergo testing and commissioning to ensure all building systems and pool equipment are operating safely and as intended before reopening.

We understand how important this facility is to our residents and community groups, and we appreciate your continued patience as this work progresses. Our focus remains on completing the reconstruction safely, efficiently, and to the high standard our community expects so the pool can reopen as soon as possible.

We will continue to provide updates as the project progresses.

For questions, please contact Service Oshawa at 905-436-3311. Staff will be happy to connect you with the Project Manager.

Updated July 2026

Update 7: South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project

Thank you to our residents and community centre pool users for your continued patience and support as we work through the South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project. We know how important this facility is to you, and we want to acknowledge the growing frustration surrounding the length of time this project is taking. City staff, contracted crews, and members of Council – including both Ward 5 City Councillors – share that frustration and want the pool reopened as much as you do.

When deficiencies were first discovered in September 2024, no one anticipated the extent of the work that would be required. To support community understanding, we have included a detailed timeline outlining the work that has taken place since the closure.

We remain committed to completing the work safely, responsibly, and with urgency so that the community and facility users can once again enjoy the pool facilities.

Project Status:

Following the unexpected shutdown of the pool in September 2024, significant challenges were revealed that were not apparent at the outset of the project. As we carried out further investigation, additional areas of concern emerged requiring the project scope to expand beyond our initial estimates.

Exterior Work
Excavation work supporting the required upgrades to the building’s foundation drainage system is essentially complete, and the remaining exterior work is limited to the southwest corner.
Fire Suppression System
Work continues on the installation of the access structure for the fire suppression system, including associated electrical and mechanical components. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances outside of the City’s control, delays have occurred with the steel work required for this structure. These delays directly affect our ability to advance work on the pool infrastructure as the pool cannot be accessed at this time.

City Commitment:

City Council has made the South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project a priority and has committed more than $8 million toward the project. This investment demonstrates the City’s commitment to reopening the pool as soon as possible.

We share the community’s disappointment and want to assure you that we are doing everything possible – including continuing to commit staff and resources – to ensure the soonest possible reopening of this vital recreational and community resource.

Learn more:

View our Project Timeline Infographic
View our Photo Gallery

We will continue to share updates as the project progresses.

For questions, please contact Service Oshawa at 905‑436‑3311 – they will be happy to connect you with the Project Manager.

Updated March 2026

Update 6: South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project

Work continues on the South Oshawa Community Centre Pool reconstruction project, including enhancements to the building’s foundation drainage system and improving access to the fire suppression system located within the pool area.

The City of Oshawa thanks facility users and residents for their ongoing patience and understanding as we move forward with this important reconstruction project. Updates on the status of the project are included below.

Project Status:

Exterior excavation work supporting the required upgrades to the building’s foundation drainage system is nearing completion. The temporary sidewalk closure on Cedar St. has been removed as exterior work at the northwest corner of the building is now finished. The exterior work area has been consolidated to the southwest corner to support the ongoing construction work, reducing risks and minimizing impacts on public safety.

Inside the pool area, installation of engineered platforms and scaffolding to support installation of access structure and improvements to the fire suppression system have been completed, along with removal of the deteriorated pool deck tiles. Installation of access structures for the fire suppression system, along with associated electrical and mechanical work, is now underway.

What to Expect:

Site Conditions: Fencing and safety signage have been consolidated to the southwest corner of the building and will remain in place for the duration of the project.
Interior Pool Work: Reconstruction activities inside the pool area are ongoing, including installation of access structures and related mechanical and electrical work.
Facility Impacts: Temporary closures in other areas of the facility may be required as construction progresses. Advance notice will be provided whenever possible.
Increased Noise Levels: Periods of elevated noise are expected during certain construction activities.
Pool Closure: The pool will remain closed for the duration of the construction period.
Wayfinding Signage: Directional signage is in place to help visitors navigate the area safely.

We recognize the inconvenience these temporary disruptions may cause and thank you for your understanding and patience. We remain dedicated to reducing impacts wherever possible and ensuring the project is completed safely and as quickly as possible.

We’ll continue to share updates.

Updated December 2025

Update 5: South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project

The City of Oshawa continues to extend its sincere thanks to residents and facility users for their continued patience and understanding as work progresses on the South Oshawa Community Centre Pool reconstruction project.

Project Status:

Exterior excavation work continues, which supports the necessary upgrades to the foundation drainage system. Temporary sidewalk closures remain in effect to protect public safety while this work is carried out.

Work inside the pool has begun, including the installation of engineered platforms and scaffolding systems to facilitate access improvements to the fire suppression system within the pool area.

What to Expect:

Site Conditions: Fencing and safety signage installed around the north, south and west portions of the building perimeter to remain in place for the duration of the work.
Excavation Works: Exterior excavation works to support the upgrades to the foundation drainage system continue around the north, south and west area of building.
Temporary Sidewalk Closure: Sidewalks along Cedar Street remain closed to ensure public safety. Alternative paths of travel have been provided.
Interior Pool Work: Reconstruction works within the pool area, which includes installation of engineered platforms and scaffolding, modifications to the mechanical work and fire suppression systems.
Facility Impacts: Temporary closures in other parts of the facility may occur as construction progresses. Advance notice will be provided wherever possible.
Increased Noise Levels: Some periods of increased noise are anticipated during construction activities.
Pool Closure: The pool will remain closed for the duration of the construction period.
Wayfinding Signage: Directional signage is posted to assist visitors in navigating the area safely

We recognize the inconvenience these disruptions may cause and appreciate your continued support as we work to enhance this valued community space. Every effort is being made to minimize impacts and complete the project safely and efficiently.

We’ll continue to share updates.

Thank you again for your understanding as we improve this important community space.

Updated August 2025

Update 4: South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project

The City of Oshawa would like to thank residents and facility users for their continued patience as we move forward with the South Oshawa Community Centre Pool reconstruction project.

The next phase of construction is now underway. This phase includes important upgrades to the building’s foundation drainage system, as well as essential health and safety improvements to ensure proper access to the fire suppression system in the pool area.

Here’s what you can expect:

Site setup will begin with the installation of fencing and safety signs around the work area.
Excavation work will take place around the outside of the facility.
Sidewalks along Cedar Street will be temporarily closed and rerouted for safety.
As construction progresses, temporary closures may occur in other areas of the facility. We’ll provide advance notice wherever possible.
You may notice increased noise at times.
The pool will remain closed throughout the construction period.

Signage will be in place to help guide visitors through the area.

We understand these disruptions can be challenging, and we’re doing everything we can to minimize the impact while completing the project as quickly and safely as possible.

We’ll continue to share updates.

Thank you again for your understanding as we improve this important community space.

Updated June 2025

Update 3: South Oshawa Community Centre Pool Reconstruction Project

The South Oshawa Community Centre is a vital recreational and community resource for our residents, serving as a hub for fitness, community meetings, aquatic activities and more and supporting the adjacent high school. We share with you in being greatly disappointed that the pool is currently closed and will be providing you with updates on the pool closure.

At its January 27 regular Council meeting, City Council committed to approving the necessary funding and a reconstruction plan for the S.O.C.C. pool and associated structures.

With this approval, the reconstruction plan can now be implemented and construction can advance.

We realize this is an inconvenience for our residents and user groups. We are taking all measures possible to reopen the pool as soon as possible and we will continue to accommodate those who have been impacted. We thank you for your understanding and patience.

Why is the pool temporarily closed?

During a routine maintenance inspection in late September 2024, we identified issues with the foundation of the S.O.C.C. pool. As a result, the pool was temporarily closed to allow for further investigation.

An engineering consultant was retained to oversee a comprehensive evaluation which required independent specialists. This evaluation included an in-depth geotechnical investigation (test pits and boreholes) as well as detailed structural analyses. This investigative work revealed significant issues. As a result, a detailed reconstruction plan was developed to ensure the long-term safety and structural integrity of the pool and recreation facility.

What’s happening now?

Implementation of the reconstruction plan can now move forward, which will include retaining the appropriate contractors to complete the necessary work.

We are committed to reopening the pool as soon as possible and are working hard to expedite the project.

What does the project include?

The project includes the reconstruction of the S.O.C.C pool and associated structures. Additionally, to minimize impact to facility users, the project also includes sprinkler system access work to ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code which was identified in the City’s 2023 Capital Budget and anticipated to commence in 2026/27. Completing both projects simultaneously will minimize disruption to facility user groups by consolidating the closure under one project.

How will it be funded?

As the South Oshawa Community Centre is a vital recreational and community resource, City Council approved reserve funding of up to $2.5 million for the pool reconstruction and up to $3.35 million to address critical health and safety upgrades to ensure access to its fire suppression system including the sprinklers. Using reserves funds, which are critical to the City’s long-term financial sustainability, means this project will not impact user fees.

When will it be done?

We recognize the inconvenience caused by the pool closure and want to reassure residents and facility users that every effort is being made to complete the reconstruction as efficiently as possible and to reopening the pool at the earliest opportunity.

Please note that, given the scope of the work, there may be some noise or other disruptions throughout the duration of the project. We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

Other pools

While the S.O.C.C. pool is closed, below is more information on the City’s other indoor pools:

For swim times, visit oshawa.ca/Swim.

Posted January 2025

Update 2: South Oshawa Community Centre pool closed until further notice

The South Oshawa Community Centre (SOCC) pool (1455 Cedar St.) is closed for an extended time to assess and evaluate required repairs for the safe operation of the pool.

As a result, of the pool closure, the City will not offer aquatic programs at SOCC until repairs are complete. Additional swimming lessons will be available at the Civic Recreation Complex, Delpark Homes Centre, and Donevan Recreation Complex.

Find a complete list of Leisure swims by visiting oshawa.ca/Swim.

Watch for Winter activeOshawa registration beginning at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, November 19. Visit oshawa.ca/activeOshawa for details.

The City apologizes for any inconvenience this closure may cause.

To stay informed on this and other facility updates and closures, subscribe to Service Disruptions.

Updated on Monday, November 11, 2024

Update 1: South Oshawa Community Centre pool closed until further notice

The South Oshawa Community Centre (SOCC) pool (1455 Cedar St.) is closed until further notice due to ongoing maintenance requirements. All other recreation programs and services (non-aquatic) will proceed as scheduled.

As a result of this closure:

Leisure swims scheduled at the SOCC Pool have been cancelled until further notice. Find location alternatives by visiting Oshawa.ca/Swim.
Swimming lesson and aquatic course participants scheduled at the SOCC Pool will be contacted regarding program changes over the next week.
All pool rental permit holders will be contacted regarding cancellation or location alternatives.

Updates will be provided as they become available.

To stay informed on this and other facility updates and closures, subscribe to Service Disruptions.

Posted on Friday, September 20, 2024