From Swim Meets to Sun Camp to Family Meetups —Our Neighborhood Deserves a Pool

In the heart of our neighborhood lies a rare gem—one of the only open spaces left that still buzzes with the sounds of kids laughing, parents cheering, and the splash of swimmers chasing their goals. It's here, in this open grassy area with six swim lanes and room to breathe, that our community comes alive during the summer. But without a dedicated public outdoor pool, this gem remains underutilized, and our families are left scrambling for access to basic recreation and wellness.

We live in what I can only describe as a desert of public outdoor pools. The nearest ones are over 20 minutes away, and even then, they’re often packed beyond capacity. For families like mine—who can’t afford the luxury of private pool memberships—that’s a serious barrier. My kids are part of the Piranhas swim team, and this nearby site is not just a practice pool; it’s a home. It’s where they learn discipline, build friendships, and experience the joy of teamwork under the sun. It's one of the only places nearby that could truly support a thriving network of youth swim teams.

My children also attend Sun Camp here each summer, and having a pool on-site turns a regular camp into a magical experience. I still hear them tell stories about their “best summer ever,” made possible by easy access to that water—on hot days, it’s more than fun, it’s relief. It’s childhood. Without a pool, the magic of camp loses some of its sparkle.

For me personally, this space is more than just about family fun—it’s where I train for triathlons. As an adult athlete, outdoor pool access is essential. It’s where I push my limits, stay healthy, and model an active lifestyle for my kids. And I’m not alone. There are many in our community—parents, seniors, casual swimmers—who are looking for a space to stay active without driving across town.

This location is already ideal. It’s central, it’s accessible, and it’s designed to support multiple uses: swim teams, camps, families, individual training. With the right investment, it could be a true hub of community connection, wellness, and youth development.

A public outdoor pool isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” For us, it’s a need. It represents equity in access to recreation, support for local youth sports, and a commitment to health and connection in our neighborhood.

We’re asking for your help—your support—to make this a reality. Let’s give our kids the summer they deserve, give our teams a place to thrive, and give our community a space to come together and grow stronger.