Fun in the Sun
Aberdeen Aquatic Center
Aberdeen, South Dakota
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ith two failing pools and a declining interest in participation at the city's aquatic facilities, Aberdeen knew something had to be done. After several years of planning and surveying the public, Aberdeen is now home to a new aquatic park that satisfies the needs for anyone looking for fun in the sun.
During a two-year time period before opening the Aberdeen Aquatic Center, the city was pushing to find out why there was a decline in revenue and interest in its two existing pools, which were more than 50 years old. In 2003 several firms, along with the city, discovered that people were unhappy with their current facilities. Some 40 percent of the current facilities' operations were subsidized during the summer, and it was difficult for casual users to find time to use the pools.
After receiving positive feedback and support for the potential new park from residents, and with the determination that a new facility was more economically feasible than renovating the old pools, the design and construction process was under way in 2005.
Today the new facility provides residents with two pools, 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards, inner-tube flume slides, body water flume slides and several themed floatable play features.
Staying in line with resident's desires, the park features a 9,000-square-foot leisure pool that is separate from the 50-meter lap pool. Whenever meets are held at the facility, the competition pool activities can be kept separate from the leisure pool area, providing fun for swimmers at any time of the day and on any day of the week without having to close to the public.
The park was designed with the idea that future expansion may be needed as well. Ample space was saved at the park grounds for possible expansion of the lazy river and for additional parking. Residents requested that a larger lazy river could be added to the current river that is 350 feet long and features five wall sprays. The river is accessed by way of the leisure and slide plunge pool making flow from all attractions run smoother.
For those looking to relax at the park, there are pool decks with chaise lounges, shade umbrellas, sunny turf areas and a rental shelter for parties or picnics. Elaborate landscaping, coordinated signs, varying colors and furniture throughout the facility make for an aesthetically appealing environment at Aberdeen Aquatic Center.
W H A T T H E J U D G E S S A I D |
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Cool pool.
Janet Jordan
Serious aquatic fun for Aberdeen residents.
Steve Blackburn
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A S S O C I A T E D F I R M S |
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Architect: HKG Architects
Feasibility Consultant: Ballard King & Associates
Engineer: Helms & Associates
Mechanical/Electrical Engineer:
Metter Sichmeller Engineering
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