Park City council reviews pool survey showing strong local support for family-focused aquatic center

Park City council members on April 9 received concept designs and survey results for a proposed new outdoor aquatic center aimed at families and children.

Gary Holler of Schaefer Architecture and Brian Hill of Water's Edge presented findings from a citywide survey of about 500 responses and two conceptual site layouts. "We did get about 500 responses, which was which was fantastic. And 92%, as you can see from the slide, they were favorable," Holler said, noting 91% of respondents live in Park City and that most respondents were in the 35–44 age range.

The concepts emphasize family-friendly features: zero-depth entry for small children, a body slide, a current channel (shorter than a lazy river), a splash pad that could operate beyond the pool season, lap lanes and a program area for lessons and water aerobics. Hill summarized choices from survey input and illustrated how amenities fit on the site, saying the historic pool was once known for recreational features ("This was pool was definitely known for gutter ball around the area") and that modern designs would prioritize multiuse space.

Presenters estimated operational cost recovery at about 80% for day-to-day expenses (maintenance, lifeguards, utilities and chemicals) but cautioned that debt service for construction is separate and would not be covered in that figure. They stressed the staffing and lifeguard implications of larger water-park elements: a full lazy river would increase lifeguard needs and operating costs, while a shorter current channel can deliver a similar experience with fewer staff requirements.

Council members pressed on parking, lifespan and site selection. One concept included 95 parking spaces (four accessible); presenters said no formal site had been selected and concepts would be reconfigured to fit a chosen location. On longevity, presenters suggested properly built pools can last 40 to 50 years with planned maintenance and recommended budgeting for mid-life upgrades.

No formal action was requested; staff said refined cost ranges and a benchmarked report would be returned to council before any bid or procurement step.

The council received the study and directed staff to advance concept refinement and cost benchmarking prior to formal project authorization or solicitation of bids.