Aquatics: Create A Winning Combination

Programming, planning, and projects are key ingredients in attracting user groups to swimming pools By Lauren Ozburn In the summer before I began middle school, I officially became an elder at the local pool that was within walking distance from my house. I probably consumed a dozen or more frozen Snickers as bribes by lifeguards who wanted to leave the pool on days too cold to remain open. My friends and I treated the pool like our home, and at least one of us would leave a towel to claim a seat for the next day. Teenage-lifeguard me would have been annoyed by pre-teen me.Reflecting on my childhood, those days at the pool were the most enriching, carefree, and safe environment for me and my friends. Today, more than 25 years later, communities continue to offer spaces that foster childhood memories by strategically planning programs and amenities. It is never too early—or too late—to plan to maximize utilization of a facility.