AQUATICS FACILITY Conceptual Proposal March 1, 2007 Hilton Head Aquatics with Island Recreation Center

Overview  The Town of Hilton Head has one community pool available for public use.  This pool is located at the Island Recreation Center and was built 19 years ago when the population of the town was less than 20,000 permanent residents.  The population of the town has more than doubled since this pool was built and an increasing interest in aquatic activities has created a demand for additional pool facilities.  The current pool is in operation from 5AM to 9PM and well used.  We believe there are other groups that would make use of a pool that are not currently able to because of accessibility or programming time limitations.

Proposed P ool Elements Primary 25 yard by 25 meter pool  Graduated depth.  Connected to zero depth baby pool & splash area.  Seasonal fabric structure enclosure.  25 ft deck space.  Accommodation for elderly and special needs.

Proposed Pool Elements Secondary 4 lane 50 meter training pool  Shallow depth – 4 feet.  Uncovered year round.  10 feet deck space.  Accommodation for competitive swimming, kayaking, tri-athlete training, lap swimming.

Potential Program Elements  Diverse aquatics programming offered at convenient times.  Open lap/fitness swimming always available.  Adult and child swimming lessons.  Lifesaving and water safety programs.  Water aerobics programs offered at convenient times.  Multiple aquatics programs offered simultaneously – family friendly.  Simultaneous, multiple programming offerings throughout the day.

Proposed Operation  The Aquatics Facility proposed would dovetail with the Island Recreation Center facility.  The staffing, day-to-day management, program coordination and maintenance of the facility would be provided by the Island Recreation Association.

Estimated Cost of Construction Aquatics Facility  25 yard by 25 meter pool - estimated to be $1 million to $1.5 million depending on construction specifics.  4 lane 50 meter pool – estimated to be $250,000 to $400,000.  If facilities are not built in proximity to the Recreation Facility, then expense for restrooms, locker rooms, office and storage must be added.

Potential Funding Sources  Community fundraising  Possible grants  Government funding

Conclusion  The Island Recreation Center and its pool is a focal point for many members of our community.  The Recreation Element of the Hilton Head Island Comprehensive Plan states “As the population of the island continues to grow, the need or recreational opportunities to serve all segments (e.g. senior citizens and physically challenged) of the population increases.”  A new aquatics facility would be designed as a complement to the existing Recreation Center and with the needs of the community in mind, including seniors an physically challenged individuals.  We believe in the value of aquatics programming for the community as a whole and the demand for additional aquatics facilities on the Island.  We are requesting the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Town Council to recognize this committee to allow access to town staff for further evaluation and planning.