Construction is underway on a new gym and pool complex that will transform athletics, physical education, recreation, and aquatic programming at The Maryland School for the Blind (MSB).
The new facility will replace two longtime campus spaces: Knefely Gym, built in 1954, and Sippel Pool, built in 1976. The pool was decommissioned during the pandemic, and MSB has not been able to offer on-campus swimming lessons or aquatic therapy since that time.
The new complex will bring these programs back to campus in one modern, accessible facility designed to meet the needs of students today and well into the future.
“We’re very pleased with the team at Lewis Contractors and their commitment to quality and exceptional customer service. We’re also excited to have HDC on board as our owner’s representative, providing valuable oversight and support throughout the project. The new Athletics Center will be a focal point of the MSB campus and, more importantly, a wonderful space that will enhance programming and opportunities for our students for years to come.”
– Bill McCubbin, Director of Operations
A Facility Designed for Learning, Movement and Independence
The new gym and pool complex will include:
- A lap pool
- A sensory pool
- A multi-purpose gym
- A fitness room
- A health classroom
- A pavilion
- Staff and support areas
- A security office
- A first-aid room
- Storage and laundry spaces
Bringing the gym and pools together in one location will also make the campus more efficient. MSB will be able to better coordinate physical education, aquatics, staffing, scheduling and facility maintenance while making the best use of available campus space.
Construction Gallery
Why Swimming Matters
For students who are blind or have low vision, learning to swim can be especially important.
Swimming provides the same health, fitness and recreational benefits it offers to anyone, but it can also build important skills related to safety and independence.
Water environments can provide fewer reliable visual cues, and sounds may be harder to locate or interpret around water. Learning how to move confidently in a pool, orient to the surrounding environment and respond to an unexpected situation can help students develop skills they can use throughout their lives.
Swimming instruction also supports body awareness, balance, coordination, strength and confidence.
Most importantly, students who are blind or have low vision deserve the same opportunities as their peers to learn to swim, enjoy the water, participate in aquatic recreation and discover activities they may want to continue beyond school.
Building for the Future
The new complex is about much more than replacing aging buildings. It is an investment in what students will be able to learn, practice and experience at MSB.
By combining athletics, fitness, health education and aquatic programming in one accessible facility, MSB is creating a space where students can build skills, challenge themselves, stay active and explore new opportunities.
As construction continues, each new wall, pool and learning space brings MSB closer to welcoming students into a facility designed for what comes next.