The University of Central Florida Reflecting Pond will remain under repair through May 2018 after pipe damage from Hurricane Irma passed over Florida in September.
The nearly 50-year-old pond’s underground pipes sprung several leaks; heavy rain from Irma caused runoff to damage electrical controls in addition to the pipe damage. The Reflecting Pond will have its current system modernized to allow one of UCF’s iconic locations to function “for generations to come.”
“The university has embarked on a plan that will ensure the Reflecting Pond continues to function for future generations for decades to come. A comprehensive renovation will repair the pond’s concrete surface, plumbing, and filtration, upgrade its lighting to color-changing LEDs, and add more efficient fountain pumps,” UCF said.
The left side of the pond, when facing Millican Hall, remained blocked off during Spirit Splash. An SGA homecoming director at the event stated the move was part of a new take on Spirit Splash, although when speaking to a UCF facilities staff member at prior to event start, the staff member stated that damage to Irma did not allow for students to rush the pond on that side.
“The pond was drained after Spirit Splash and will remain dry until the latest renovation is done, which is expected to be in May. Engineers and contractors are now in the planning and permitting stage,” UCF said. “When construction begins, the Reflecting Pond will be fenced off for safety reasons.”
