Celebrating the Grand Opening of the Brand-New Arvada Aquatics Center

(Arvada, Colo.) – November 11, 2024 – The City of Arvada, Jeffco Public Schools and Apex Park and Recreation District celebrate the Grand Opening of the brand-new Arvada Aquatics Center.

On Saturday, November 23, the City of Arvada invites the community to celebrate the grand opening of the state-of-the-art Arvada Aquatics Center (AAC). Designed and constructed in collaboration with Jeffco Public Schools and the Apex Park and Recreation District, the AAC will be one of the largest natatoriums in Colorado, elevating the capacity for aquatic recreation and competition in the region.

A facility for all ages and abilities

The AAC is designed to meet the community’s diverse needs, from recreational swimming to competitive events. The facility includes:

• A 50,000-square-foot complex with a 50-meter competition pool with adjustable bulkheads for versatile event configurations 
• A secondary 25-yard pool with warmer water ideal for swim lessons, exercise, and other general uses 
• A diving well, equipped with three 1-meter springboards, three 3-meter springboards, and a 3-meter and 5-meter platform; the only facility of this caliber in the state outside of the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, making it a premier location for diving competitions 
• Spectator seating for over 800 and on-deck participant seating for over 600 
• Universal changing rooms and accessible locker areas to provide inclusive space for families and assure ADA accessibility for people with disabilities 

Innovative Design and Technology

Designed by OLC Architecture and constructed by Saunders Construction, the AAC showcases groundbreaking construction techniques and technology.

• The proprietary Myrtha Pool technology from Italy enhances the pool’s durability and maximizes swimmer performance. Myrtha Pools has an international reputation for excellence in aquatics competitions, providing hundreds of pools to several Olympic Games and other top competitions and venues worldwide.
• An advanced timing system built into the pool deck relays live results to a large scoreboard during competitions, heightening the experience for athletes and spectators alike.
• Saunders used a 3D laser scan to certify exact length specifications, ensuring that the competitive pool meets international standards for record-setting events.

“The Arvada Aquatics Center represents the future of recreation and competition for our community,” said Robert McDonald, Principal in Charge and Project Manager at OLC. “With its comprehensive design, this facility not only provides a space for athletic excellence but also strengthens our community bonds.”

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

In line with Arvada’s commitment to sustainability, the AAC is on track to achieve LEED Silver certification, a noteworthy potential achievement given the operational requirements of an aquatics facility. The center includes sustainably sourced materials and energy-efficient systems, including:

• Water-saving filtration with regenerative media filters for efficient water reuse, reducing indoor water use by approximately 40%.
• Native landscaping and high-efficiency drip irrigation systems are estimated to reduce outdoor water demand by 77%.
• Energy saving measures for HVAC systems, boilers, LED lighting, and more with an anticipated reduction of energy costs by 20%.
• Waste diversion during the demolition of the Meyers pool and throughout construction led to 85% of the material being diverted from landfills and recycled.
• Interior finishes, high-efficiency air filtration, and large ceiling fans help reduce indoor air pollutants and improve air quality.
• A grant-funded partnership with the Colorado Energy Office will fund the future installation of 10 EV charging stations, promoting greenhouse gas reductions.

These features contribute to a reduced environmental footprint and long-term operational savings.

A new era for Arvada aquatics

For generations to come the AAC will provide a place for community members to learn to swim, practice their skills, compete, and exercise, promoting health, wellness, and recreation for all ages.

“The completion of this state-of-the-art aquatics facility has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said City of Arvada project manager, Kim Vagher. “This project exemplifies the great work we can accomplish to improve access to high-quality competition and recreation amenities when we come together as partner organizations. Jeffco Public Schools and Apex Park and Recreation District have been critical in the success of the project and the investment in the quality of life for the Arvada community and swimmers and divers throughout the region.”

Join us on Saturday, November 23 for the grand opening festivities, which will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, facility tours, and family-friendly activities to officially unveil this exciting new addition to the community.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, November 23
• Location: Arvada Aquatics Center, 7904 Carr Drive, Arvada, CO
• Time: 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

For more information about the Arvada Aquatics Center, please visit City of Arvada’s website.

This new facility replaces the historic George J. Meyers Swimming Center, a beloved part of Arvada for over 45 years. As this new chapter in Arvada’s aquatic history unfolds, we look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to experience all that the Arvada Aquatics Center has to offer!

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