News Summary

Spokane is moving forward with plans to renovate the Spokane Community College indoor pool, which has been closed since 2020. The initiative aims to secure year-round swimming access through a collaboration between Spokane Public Schools and Spokane Parks. To proceed, voters must approve a parks levy and a school bond in the upcoming November ballot. This renovation is part of a larger $440 million ‘Together Spokane’ initiative and will include free swim lessons for second graders, addressing community needs and promoting aquatic safety.

Spokane Dives into Plans for Indoor Pool Renovation

Spokane is making waves with an exciting proposal to renovate the Spokane Community College indoor pool, which has been closed since 2020 due to the pandemic. In a remarkable collaboration, Spokane Public Schools and Spokane Parks are taking a big step forward to ensure that residents can enjoy year-round swimming access. But here’s the catch: for the renovation plans to swim smoothly, voters need to approve a parks levy and a school bond during the upcoming November ballot.

The Big Picture: Introducing ‘Together Spokane’

This pool renovation isn’t just a standalone project; it’s part of a larger, ambitious $440 million initiative dubbed ‘Together Spokane’. This initiative aims to tackle various projects around the city, enhancing amenities and resources for residents. For the pool alone, the renovation is expected to cost between $1 million and $3 million. And the Spokane Community College is stepping up by relinquishing control of the pool at no cost, making this an even more appealing investment.

More Than Just a Pool

The benefits of this renovation go far beyond just providing a place to swim. If the funding is approved, Spokane Public Schools plans to roll out free swim lessons for every second grader in the district. This initiative aims to promote aquatic safety, especially important for children with special needs, who are at a higher risk of drowning. The new facility would not only enhance access but also provide crucial swimming skills, making sure that safety comes first.

Boosting School Swim Programs

Currently, schools in Spokane face a major hurdle when it comes to offering swimming as a sport; the city has no facilities available for that. If the renovation moves forward, it will open the doors for high school swim teams to practice and compete in a dedicated venue. Imagine young athletes showcasing their talents right at home!

Meeting the Demand

The demand for swimming facilities in Spokane is undeniable. During the summer of 2023 alone, over 100,000 visitors flocked to the city’s pools. Yet existing swim programs for individuals with special needs often face limitations—many are overbooked. The renovated facility promises expanded access to swimming regardless of the season, making it easier for more individuals to learn and enjoy the water throughout the entire year.

Smart Investment for the Future

City officials argue that renovating the existing pool is not only practical but is a much smarter investment compared to the tens of millions that would be needed to build a new aquatic center from the ground up. By partnering the parks department with the school district, they hope to maximize taxpayer resources while significantly enhancing community facilities.

Your Vote Matters

But, here’s where you come in! For the renovation to take place, voters must approve both the parks levy, which aims to raise $225 million over 20 years, and the school district’s bond targeting $200 million. Polling data shows that past attempts to secure school funding through bonds have stumbled in reaching the crucial 60% voter approval threshold. If just one of these measures passes, the pool renovation plans will be put on hold. It’s all or nothing!

A Growing Need for Swimming Facilities

The expectation is that a successful ballot will address the increasing community need for swimming facilities and prioritize aquatic safety education. Spokane can be a city where everyone has the opportunity to swim safely, whether for leisure, sport, or learning essential skills.

As the November ballot approaches, Spokane residents have a chance to make a splash in their community. It’s not just about a pool; it’s about creating a safer, healthier future for everyone. So, mark your calendars and let your voices be heard!

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