Thanks to the help of Sweetwater District’s local and state leaders, a major upgrade is on its way for a competitive swimming pool at Mar Vista High School.

Sen. Ben Hueso, Assemblyman Todd Gloria, Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina and other leaders recently announced $2 million from the state budget will be allocated to the Sweetwater Union High School District to fund improvements to the pool in the beach town community.

At this time, the swimming pool faces closure due to corrosion, pipe breaks and other building code problems.

“The Sweetwater District and Mar Vista High community are extremely thankful for our elected representatives advocacy for our students and community,” said Sweetwater District Board of Trustees President Paula Hall.

“For years the swimming pool at Mar Vista High has faced closure due to its disrepair. Thanks to the State’s investment of $2 million dollars and the fundraising of the City of Imperial Beach and the Sweetwater District, the pool will now be redeveloped and preserved for generations to come!” said Assemblymember Todd Gloria.

The issues could affect students who live in the area and have no other options for swimming. The problems could also impact schools that use the pool for water polo or other sports.

As part of the State Legislature’s 2018-2019 State Budget, Senator Ben Hueso helped secure millions of dollars in State funding for much-needed improvements in the 40th Senate District, including water quality projects, construction of public facilities and workforce development programs. Part of those dollars of in gap funding from the state will secure and build a new joint-use pool.

“If you want to go fast, go alone,” said Sweetwater District Superintendent Dr. Karen Janney. “ If you want to go far, go together. With this new development and with huge thanks to our California representatives we are continuing the work in “Putting Students First” here in Sweetwater.”