There are a lot of pool contractors and inspectors who have a surprise coming if this really is to be enforced. It will probably add $1000 to the price of a pool.

Personally I can't wait to see the first contractor have to make one of those alternate grid methods. I want pictures.

If this really sticks, as written, I expect a copper wire manufacturer will come up with a 3' wide mesh 12x of #8, welded at the intersections like regular 6x concrete wire. That is the easiest way I can see to make the grid under pavers. Pool contractors like pavers because they don't have to worry about compacting the backfill as much. If they get a sinkhole in a paver deck, a laborer with a shovel and a wheelbarrow can fix it. If a concrete deck sinks you got big problems.

I think you are correct, I don't think it would be cost effectve for a contractor to make one of those.

This is the kind of thing that should be settled before we jump out there and adopt the 05 code. If this is really what the article means we should allow the marketplace <nationally> to provide the product before we require the use.
Actually there may already be something that will work but it is only fair that the contractors get a heads up. Bids will be affected by the cost of this product or whatever work around that is approved by the AHJ. I do find it interesting that rusty old rebar can be snap tied together at varying unspecified intervals but copper must use a listed connector or be welded at EVERY intersection. Personally I would accept a grid tied with #12cu at every intersection, particularly if this was embedded in concrete.

Sorry but I was wrong ....it does have something to do with the pool construction as well. This requirement applies to pools constructed with encapsulated rebar as well as fiberglass pools.

After some more research the alternate means to install the below grade grid shall be secured within or under the pool and deck media, per 68026(c)(3)(c).

This will require the bonding grid to cover the under outline contour of a fiberglass pool or pool constructed with encapsulated rebar and deck with paved walking surfaces extending 3ft form the inside wall of the pool wall.