Does anyone remember Lake Loraine? Hot summer days spent splashing around and taking in the sun at Mr. Daniel's place. Well that was long ago and times have changed.
During a special joint meeting between the Lancaster City Council and the Garrard County Fiscal Court, a proposal for an aquatic center was presented by Brandstetter Carroll, Inc., an architectural firm based in Lexington specializing in planning and design services for municipal- aquatic parks. The presentation focused on current trends in aquatic parks as well as the planning, design and funding of such projects.
In the past, most cities focused on swimming pools when designing a waterpark facility with competitive swimming being the loudest voice in decisions about design.
However, according to Brandstetter Carroll, studies show that such pools have become outdated and family-oriented aquatic recreation centers, essentially mini-water parks, have become more popular.
By offering more than competitive and instructional activities, family centered activities like splash parks, water slides, lazy rivers and party areas, cities are able to provide their residents with more than just a swimming pool.
The presentation outlined the process other cities have followed to acheive successful aquatic parks, even in areas that lack funding.
Initially there would be the need for a feasibility study, which would evaluate the specific needs of Lancaster and Garrard County for such a facility.
The study would give the public officials a technical analysis to begin the planning stages for the project as well as enable the public to have input on the features they would like to have available. The cost of the study was estimated at $10,000 - $15, 000.
Based on the feasibility study, plans for funding and implementation could begin. For example, site analysis, design, cost estimates for construction and future maintenance. Representatives for Brandstetter Carroll estimated the study would take approximately six to twelve weeks.
Judge Exectutive John Wilson stressed that although discussion of an aquatic center is “extremely preliminary”, it would be a positive move to have the feasibility study done prior to 2010. He went on to say “I ran on increased recreational opportunities for children. The public wants it.”