Jump Back In

Erie, Pa. (June 10, 2026) - Barber National Institute celebrated the completion of a $3M pool and natatorium renovation with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, June 10 on its main campus in Erie, Pa. The pool constructed in 1979 was among the first in the nation to have a moveable floor that could be raised and lowered to meet varying mobility needs.

“There are spaces in an organization that quietly carry a lot of impact,” said John Barber, president and CEO of Barber National Institute. “The pool is one of them. For decades it has been a space where children and adults have built skills, strength, confidence – often in ways that aren’t visible.”

The renovation, led by Weber Murphy Fox architects, focused on bringing the facility up to today’s standards: safer, more accessible, and more efficient for the long term. “We’ve improved the infrastructure, updated equipment, and ensured this space can serve children and adults for years to come,” said Robert Barber, senior vice president of Barber National Institute. “Every improvement was made with a purpose – to create a better experience for those who rely on this pool every day.”

The renovation scope included:

• installation of a state-of-art filtration system
• replacement of underground pipes
• updating the hydraulic system that raises and lowers the floor
• family changing areas with handicapped accessible showers and waterproof tiles to reduce slipping
• retiled walls, pool deck, and floor
• new lockers
• separate seating area for parents/siblings

The reopening also signals an important expansion: this is not only a space for individuals served directly by Barber National Institute, but a resource for the broader community. The pool will reopen to the public on Monday, July 7 offering a full menu of swimming lessons, aquatic fitness classes, and open swimming times.

“The water is a unique classroom,” Mitchell Bosse, aquatics director at Barber National Institute explained. “When someone is learning to manage sensory input, follow safety boundaries, or try something challenging again, they are developing patience, resilience, and self-regulation.” 

Those lessons carry into the classroom, the community, and home life long after the swim ends. 

“We want everyone in our community to have access to safe swim practices,” said Bosse. “Whether they come here or go to another neighborhood pool, these are skills that help people enjoy the water safely for a lifetime.” 

Just as importantly, the pool is designed to be a place where people feel they belong. 

“I hope everyone who comes here finds something they need,” Bosse continued. “Whether that’s learning a new skill, building confidence, or simply enjoying time in a space that feels welcoming and supportive.” 

In that way, the reopening of the pool reflects the broader mission of Barber National Institute: a belief in human potential and a commitment to creating environments where that potential can grow.

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About Barber National Institute

Barber National Institute is guided by compassion, innovation, and an unshakeable belief in human potential. We work every day to help make dreams come true for people of all abilities. Founded in 1952 by Dr. Gertrude A. Barber, we have grown from a single classroom into a comprehensive network of services for 5,400 adults and children with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behavioral health challenges. With locations in Bedford, Erie, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Somerset, and Warren, we empower children, adults, and families through education, residential options, employment, and community programs. We carry forward Dr. Barber’s legacy and vision for a world where everyone belongs and lives to their fullest potential. Learn more at barberinstitute.org.