Sidney pool project on schedule

Although snow abounds in Sidney this week, the city's aquatic center is on track to be completed on time in late May.

On Dec. 9, construction crews applied concrete for the new 2,100 square foot leisure pool as part of the Sidney Outdoor Aquatic Center Project. The total cost of the new state-of-the-art outdoor swimming pool/aquatic center is approximately $5.4 million.

The application of the concrete that was applied on Dec. 9 is a product and process called Shotcrete. Concrete is mixed to a thick consistency so it doesn't slump down the side walls. The concrete is then applied through a high pressure hose sprayed at the reinforcement bars. That way, only one side of the wooden forms has to be put up, which is a labor cost savings. Also, it allows for curvy walls and sloped transitions from wall to floor.

Construction began Aug. 17, 2015, and is on target to be completed by May 24.