HARTFORD — The town’s $3.3 million pool project will go forward as planned after officials jettisoned a proposal to delay work on the voter-approved recreation facility.

The Selectboard opted Tuesday night to continue with design and engineering work before checking in on the project to replace the now-closed Sherman Manning Pools in September.

Their decision came after Hartford Recreation Director Scott Hausler penned an impassioned letter defending the effort.

“No time is more important than now for our local parks, trails, open spaces and public facilities,” he wrote in the letter, which was dated March 24.

Hausler added that recreation staff are preparing for the end of Vermont’s COVID-19 state of emergency and a return to normalcy, which includes planning for future projects like the pool.

“This is our focus now, and it will continue to consume us,” he wrote.

Questions about whether to postpone work on the project — which was approved in a 1,725-1,394 vote at Town Meeting — came earlier this month as the Selectboard discussed the town’s response to the novel coronavirus.

They pondered whether staff efforts should focus on the pandemic and push the project another year.

However, a delay could result in a “large price escalation” as construction costs rise, according to Hausler, who predicted a price hike would force officials to request additional funds from voters.

“I believe the project may not see completion,” Hausler wrote.

Selectboard member Simon Dennis, who initially brought up the idea of postponing work, said he was placated by Hausler’s assertion that the pool project isn’t detracting from staffers’ other work.

“I support it fully,” he said during the meeting, which was broadcast online to maintain social distancing.

Town Manager Brannon Godfrey said the Selectboard could still discuss delaying work but should wait until September when Hartford is expected to issue a request for qualifications.

“I think we’re preserving our options to be able to make a decision down the road,” he said.

Construction of the new pool is scheduled for next year, with an opening date of June 2022.

Designs include four 75-foot lap lanes, water features for children and “zero-depth” entry, which officials say makes the pool accessible for those with disabilities.

Tim Camerato can be reached at tcamerato@vnews.com or 603-727-3223.