News Summary

Peoria’s Central Park Pool, a cherished venue for aquatic sports since 1969, will close its doors as the Peoria Area Water Wizards transition to new facilities. The beloved pool’s last day is August 23, ahead of the official lease end on August 31. The community reflects on the pool’s rich history and the challenges faced, including concerns about facility upkeep. A farewell event will commemorate the pool’s legacy and the importance of swimming education in Peoria.

Peoria Says Goodbye to an Old Friend as PAWW Moves On

Peoria, a city known for its spirit, is about to bid farewell to a beloved piece of its community—the Central Park Pool. The Peoria Area Water Wizards (PAWW), a fixture in local aquatic sports, has announced they will be transitioning from their long-time home at the pool to new venues at Bradley University and Pekin High School. This change comes as the Wizards prepare to wrap up their final days at the pool, with a scheduled closure on August 23 and the lease officially ending on August 31.

History of the Pool

Central Park Pool has been the heart and soul of swimming in Peoria since it first opened its doors back in 1969. With over half a century of history, this 56-year-old pool has provided crucial support to competitive swim programs and has served hundreds of athletes, families, and local teams. Since 2015, PAWW has rented the facility from the Peoria Park District after the district shuttered the pool due to budget issues. However, the Park District clarified that the pool is not closing altogether, indicating intentions to maintain and possibly improve facilities moving forward.

Looking Ahead

With the shift to Bradley University and Pekin High School, PAWW aims to continue its competitive swim program without skipping a beat. The announcement via social media has sparked both nostalgia and curiosity among swim families and the community. A farewell event on the pool’s last day promises to be a heartfelt occasion, featuring a final race, a memory walk, and a closing ceremony to commemorate all the unforgettable moments that took place at the pool. This opportunity gives swimmers a chance to honor their time spent in the water at this cherished venue.

Challenges Faced

While the move to new facilities opens a new chapter for PAWW, concerns about the aging infrastructure at Central Park Pool have not gone unnoticed. Reports suggest that repairs and funding for improvements needed at the pool have been critical issues, prompting this important relocation. It’s worth mentioning that Central Park Pool remains the only indoor facility in the Peoria area that meets the depth requirements for competitive swimming, featuring a specialized diving pool that enhances the swimming experience.

Community Impact

The loss of such an important facility in Peoria raises questions about the future of community swimming. Many locals cherish their swimming lessons and the skills learned at Central Park Pool, and there is growing concern about the trend of pool closures in the region that directly affect children’s access to swim education. Community leaders and organizations are recognizing the need for collaborative planning among the city, park district, and school district to find sustainable solutions. Ensuring the pool remains available for practice and community usage is paramount as discussions about the future of swimming facilities continue.

Looking for Solutions

As PAWW prepares for its transition, both the Peoria Park District and Peoria Public Schools are closely examining next steps regarding Central Park Pool. While this historic location is leaving its role as the primary aquatic center for the Wizards, the community continues to express a strong desire to preserve this key resource for generations to come. Finding ways to maintain and improve the facility will likely be a topic of conversation in the near future, as aquatic sports remain an important aspect of life in Peoria.

As the countdown begins to the last lap at Central Park Pool, Peoria can cherish the memories made and look forward to the potential bright future of swimming for its youth. Here’s to new beginnings and a splash of excitement as the Peoria Area Water Wizards embark on their journey!

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