LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – After more than five years in the making, Lima’s new Community Aquatic Park was officially presented to donors and community members Friday.
Dozens of contributors and local leaders filled the facility for a first look at the state-of-the-art aquatic complex. Following a ceremony thanking those who made the project possible, guests toured the locker rooms, a community room and, of course, the water features.
“The indoor facility is a eight lane certified USA Swimming competition pool with also a bulkhead, which is just a divider in the pool to divide the pool. So we also have space for swim lessons and other activities. And then the outdoor activity pool is really for families. So we have, you know, small slide features and water toy features for the children, as well as a 26 foot avalanche twisting slide,” said Ken Cobb, vice president of The Sports Facilities Companies.
“We’ll be having swim lessons, water aerobics, lap swim, a place for competition swimmers to come in here and hosting some meets and stuff like that. So super excited,” said Kelly Lepsig, general manager of the Lima Community Aquatic Center.
The $11.6 million project was built debt-free, funded through personal and business donations along with state and federal support — something city leaders say is a point of pride.
“This project is a testimony to the spirit of collaboration that this community is known for. We have this beautiful facility for generations to enjoy. We built it $11.6 million debt free. Have already met over 90% of our endowment goal and really just excited to welcome the public into this facility. August, 30,” said Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith.
The grand opening is set for Saturday, Aug. 30, at 9 a.m. Entry rates apply, and information on pool hours can be found at limaquaticpark.com.
