PROGRESS AT DAKIN POOL

In a city not under constant pressure to lower tax bills, Dakin Pool in Bangor would be put on the list for rehabilitation and improved as needed. But Bangor is feeling the pinch of few extra dollars and lots of demands, so the pool, which has served the city since 1956, must find another benefactor. Or, as it has turned out, lots of benefactors.

Once proposed for closure, Dakin Pool has discovered new friends with money to help, though they still have a long way to go to reach the $100,000 needed to provide a new pool house and restrooms, a first aid station, lifeguard office and outside showers. Under a renovation plan put forward by the Friends of Dakin Pool, the old chain-link fence will be replaced and picnic and play area landscaped for the public. In addition, the pool will get a new walkway, repaired deck and a new shed to hold the pool pump and filtration system. As of Friday, the friends have raised $26,619 in cash and pledges.

As public-works projects go, these are fairly modest ambitions, but they are valuable to residents who live on the east side of town and want to walk or, in particular, bike to the end of Pine Street, just across Stillwater Avenue, to a local pool. (Dakin was named for Eugene Dakin, founder of a Bangor bicycle shop, according to the friends group.) And it is valuable to a city trying to attract residents, especially those with young children. Dakin Pool is a great place for the very young (and their parents) to spend long, hot afternoons, just as generations of residents have done.

The friends group recently announced its “Summer in the City” campaign, led by former Bangor state Sen. W. Tom Sawyer, to raise money and attract more people to the pool. Both seem to be working – local businesses and individuals have pledged money and attendance at the pool is up considerably over two years ago, when councilors saw little interest in maintaining it. These are both good signs but they are insufficient on their own.

Public support is needed to reach the fund-raising goal and provide a worthy place for city families to relax in healthy fun. Residents who can supply materials or labor would be greatly appreciated; cash is welcome too. The friends’ group hopes to hit its target by September so there isn’t much time. Those seeking more information or who are interested in making a donation can visit the Web site www.dakinpool.com.