New outdoor aquatic facility expected to open in Cary in 2022

There could be a new outdoor aquatic facility at Cary-Grove Park as soon as summer 2022. The Cary Park Board of Commissioners took action to move forward with the planning, development and construction of an outdoor aquatic facility at Cary-Grove Park in September.

Construction for the facility is expected to begin in 2021. This coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Cary Park District.

Elements of the new outdoor aquatic facility could include a zero depth entry pool, slides and spray features, interactive features, shade structures, seating and an eight-lane pool to support community and district swimming programs for all ages, according to a news release. In addition, the facility will be compliant with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and usable by people with and without a disability.

In 2020, the board of co missioners will start discussions building on this initial concept plan for the facility. Residents will be able to provide input through public meetings and open houses during the 2020 planning process.

Located at the Community Center, the Park District’s current outdoor pool is more than 40 years old, according to a news release. When this pool was built, Cary’s population was between 4,500 and 6,000. Today, it’s 21,500.

“The Board of Commissioners is committed to continuing the vision of the park district’s founding residents by replacing an aging amenity that has served the community well with a new updated outdoor aquatic facility that will serve the community and residents for many years to come,” said Keith Frangiamore, president of the Board of Commissioners.

The cost of the new facility is expected to be $9 million to $10 million.

After reviewing the agency’s finances and funding options, it was determined that the park district will complete construction of the project and operate it using the existing financial capabilities and capacity of the agency.

The board also decided to submit a grant application to the Illinois Park and Recreational Facility Construction grant program, released in December 2019.