Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center Renovation Project Closure
Maintaining a safe, efficient, and long-lasting facility for our community
The Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center in Prince Frederick will temporarily close in May 2026 for critical renovations to its heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and roof. The project is expected to last approximately six months, with reopening planned for November 2026.
These upgrades are essential to ensure the continued safety, comfort and long-term reliability of the county’s premier aquatic facility. The systems being replaced have reached the end of their service life, and repeated repairs are no longer sustainable. Acting now prevents an indefinite closure in the future.
Project Overview
What work is being done?
The project includes:
Full replacement of aging HVAC systems, which regulate temperature, humidity and air quality in the building.
Installation of a new thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roof and Kalwall roof, improving energy efficiency and long-term protection.
Related mechanical, electrical and scaffolding work required to complete the project safely and effectively.
These upgrades are part of the county’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), approved by the Board of County Commissioners.
Procurement & Contract Details
How was the contractor selected?
The project is being completed by Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc. under a competitively bid Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract.
Sourcewell is a national government purchasing cooperative that conducts public, competitive bidding on behalf of local governments. Participating members, like Calvert County, are permitted by state and local procurement laws to “piggyback” onto those contracts—saving administrative time, ensuring competitive pricing, and reducing project delays.
This process is fully compliant with Maryland and Calvert County procurement policies and is commonly used for public projects across the country.
Project Funding
The total project cost is $9,586,500, funded through the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP-000105: Hall Aquatic Center HVAC/Roof Replacement).
No new or additional taxes are being used to fund the work.
The contract includes a firm, fixed price and liquidated damages of $500 per day for any contractor delays beyond the agreed-upon schedule.
Closure Timeline & Impact
How long will the facility be closed?
The Hall Aquatic Center will be closed from May through October 2026, reopening to the public in November 2026.
This schedule allows the work to be completed safely, efficiently and without extending construction into multiple years.
Why can’t the work be phased to keep part of the facility open?
Due to the size and integration of the mechanical systems, phasing is not feasible. The HVAC and roof systems are fully connected across the facility, meaning replacement must occur as one coordinated project.
Attempting to phase the work would significantly increase the cost, duration and risk to building safety, and could result in multiple closures rather than one.
Were temporary solutions considered?
Yes. Staff explored options, but these would not meet the necessary humidity, air quality and temperature standards for competitive or recreational swimming, and would still require a full shutdown once permanent work began.
Roof Scope & Kalwall Panels
Does this project include the Kalwall roof panels?
The primary focus is the main roofing system and HVAC infrastructure, which are the most critical needs to prevent failure.
The Kalwall roof system has been assessed and remains serviceable. Future maintenance and replacement of Kalwall panels will be planned through a separate project once this phase is complete to minimize total downtime.
Program & Membership Information
What programs are affected?
High school swim teams will not be impacted.
Calvert Aquatics Club (CAC) will be accommodated at outdoor pools as much as possible during the closure.
County-run swim lessons and fitness classes will continue where space allows.
What are my options as a pass holder?
Annual pass holders will have two options:
Extension: Any unused time will be added back after reopening.
Refund: Pass holders may request a prorated refund.
Outdoor pools at Kings Landing and Cove Point will open earlier than usual in May 2026 to help accommodate displaced users.
Cost Efficiency & Public Benefit
Why not wait until another year?
Each unplanned closure due to system failure costs the county approximately $21,000 per week in lost revenue and programming disruption.
This figure is based on daily operational averages, including swim lessons, memberships, classes, and event rentals.
By replacing the systems now under a planned, budgeted schedule, the county avoids emergency shutdowns, reduces future repair costs, and ensures the building remains safe, energy-efficient and reliable for decades to come.
