CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — Next summer may end up being the year Cranston residents can once again swim in the Budlong Pool.

During a City Council meeting on Monday, Mayor Ken Hopkins’ chief of staff said the contractor demolishing and rebuilding Budlong aims to be done by May 15, 2025.

“News of the bid awarded for the Budlong Pool has provided much excitement and anticipation,” Hopkins said about the update in a statement. “This project is not only a construction endeavor but it is a symbol of community growth and investment for future generations.”

The pool has been closed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The city approved a $4,247,747 bid from Waltham, Mass.-based Vantage Builders earlier this month at a Board of Contract & Purchase meeting. Vantage plans to tear down and rebuild the community swimming pool before the first day of summer in 2025.

Separately, the city’s Department of Public Works plans to spend $377,570 on design and another $14,045 on historical archiving, bringing the project’s total cost to $4,639,362.

The remaining $110,638 will be “left over for contingencies” Hopkins’ office said.

Shortly after archival photos get authorized by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation Commission, the contractor will start demolition.

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