A Transformational Aquatic Center for Waushara County
The addition of a swimming pool and aquatic center in Waushara County is not just a luxury—it’s a life-changing opportunity for our community. For families, it offers a safe, fun place to spend quality time together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. For kids, it’s a chance to learn essential swimming skills that could save their lives, build confidence, and open doors to lifelong fitness and recreation. From swim lessons to water safety programs, the aquatic center will be a cornerstone in ensuring that all children in our community have the chance to learn how to be safe in and around water.
For adults, the aquatic center will offer more than just a place to swim laps. It will become a vital space for low-impact exercise and rehabilitation. Water-based fitness programs are a game-changer for seniors, those with mobility challenges, and anyone recovering from an injury, providing a gentle yet effective way to stay active and healthy. The pool will also provide opportunities for fitness enthusiasts to cross-train, for parents to unwind, and for local groups to host events that bring people together.
An aquatic center is also a source of economic and social vibrancy. It will attract visitors from surrounding areas, foster new partnerships, and provide local youth with opportunities to participate in swim teams, water polo, and other aquatic sports. The ripple effect of this center will be felt across Waushara County, improving quality of life, boosting community pride, and creating a gathering place where everyone feels welcome. This pool is more than a facility—it’s an investment in the health, safety, and unity of our community.
INITIAL COSTS:
The cost of constructing a 7,000-square-foot pool can range from $7 to $10 million, depending on the features and amenities included. Factors such as the type of pool—recreational, lap, or competition-grade—play a significant role in determining costs, as do additional features like zero-entry zones, splash pads, water slides, or diving boards. Enhanced facilities such as locker rooms, spectator seating, and energy-efficient systems for heating and water filtration can further impact the budget. The design of the surrounding aquatic center, including accessibility features and multi-purpose spaces for programming, also contributes to the overall cost. While the investment is substantial, every dollar goes toward creating a space that serves a wide variety of needs, ensuring long-term value and enjoyment for the community.
ENDOWMENT:
The cost doesn't stop there. Maintaining a swimming pool at the YMCA is a significant but essential expense, with annual costs reaching up to $250,000. This figure includes routine maintenance such as water treatment, filtration, and heating to ensure the pool remains clean, safe, and operational year-round. Staffing costs for lifeguards, swim instructors, and facility managers are another key component, as is the upkeep of equipment like pumps and heaters. Utilities, including water and electricity, add to the expense, especially for temperature-controlled pools. Additionally, periodic repairs and upgrades are necessary to meet safety standards and maintain the quality experience the community expects. While the costs are substantial, they reflect the commitment to providing a vital resource that supports health, safety, and community connection. This is why we are raising an extra $1,000,000 for an endowment fund. This is a fund that we'll use the interest every year to go towards the expenses of the aquatic center.