Kevin McElyea, design engineer with Aquatic Design Consultants, Lewisburg, describes features of a proposed aquatic park during the Salina City Commission planning session Monday afternoon. (photo by Tom Dorsey / Salina Journal) | Buy Journal Photos
Swirl Slide that will be a feature of the proposed Salina aquatic park.
Multi-slide complex of the proposed aquatic park.
The proposed Salina aquatic park.
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Commissioners impressed with aquatic park design
9/9/2008
By APRIL MIDDLETON
Salina Journal
If Salina city commissioners approve the concept design for a new aquatic park and the public votes for it in November, Kevin McElyea suggests the city put billboards up on the Interstates.
"This is the kind of thing that will bring people into your town," said McElyea, an aquatic design engineer with Aquatic Design Consultants, Louisburg.
The design unveiled Monday at a city commission study session includes a zero-depth entry wave pool, a lazy river, multiple slides, a 25-meter lap pool, a diving well and diving board, a kiddie pool, sprayground, grass sunbathing areas and an aqua play unit.
Some of those features, like a twin slide, a river slide and the wave pool, don't exist at any other water park in the state.
The city has placed on the Nov. 4 ballot a sales tax proposal that would pay for the estimated $12.5 million aquatic park. It would be built south of the Bicentennial Center.
The park would have an occupancy of about 2,000 and would be designed in such a way that the lap pool could be closed off from the rest of the park during competitions or other events.
The 750-foot lazy river that snakes around the entire facility would be its focal point, McElyea said. A person could exit a number of different slides on an inner tube and enter the river or pick up a tube from several locations around the park and get in.
"The design is fantastic. It's more than I thought we would get for our money. That's the positive," Commissioner Aaron Peck said. "The negative is that some people may think its excessive."
From 25 to 50 meters
Much of the conversation from commissioners on Monday centered around what it would cost to turn the 25-meter lap pool into a full-sized, 50-meter pool.
In the current design, the lap pool is designed with an adjoining diving area so people wouldn't be diving directly into the lanes.
The two cheapest alternatives to take the six lanes to 50 meters would mean taking out the so-called "diving well" so that people would be diving directly into the lanes. That would cost just more than $500,000, if the width of the lap pool remained the same as the concept design.
To make it an actual Olympic-size pool -- still minus the diving well -- would cost an additional $1.5 million. That pool would have eight to 10 lanes.
To extend the length of the lanes to 50 meters and stay within budget would require other features to be removed from the design, McElyea said.
"There are going to be gives and takes in areas to stay within the budget," he said.
Commissioner Luci Larson suggested that aquatic clubs in town might be able to raise the additional funds for the larger lap pool.
People want to have fun
McElyea said the goal was to include those features ranked the most important by those that who filled out surveys. The top five ranked features in the survey were zero-depth entry, lazy river, water slides, interactive water play features and spray/play fountains. The lap/competitive pool ranked among the bottom in the survey.
"I think the 50-meter pool will cost us more votes than it would gain us," Peck said.
Steve Snyder, director of parks and recreation agreed. It's the "fun features," he said that will drive attendance and revenue.
"What is exciting about this project is some of the premier features that encourage people to come here," Snyder said. "The river is unique, the wave pool is unique. I'm excited about it."
No formal action on the plan was taken at the study session.
When commissioners approve a design concept, McElyea said, 3-D models and tours by video will be made in advance of the November election to give the public a better idea of what the facility would look like.
If voters approve of the pool, the park would be ready to open by summer 2010.
nReporter April Middleton can be reached at 822-1409 or by e-mail at sjamiddleton@saljournal.com.
Join the Discussion:
Salina.com doesn't necessarily condone the comments here. Read our full online terms of service policy.
teenboredinthesummerinsalina says....
I think the water park would be a great addition to Salina. I grew up in Salina and still move back home from college in the summer and I think all teenagers and kids can vouche for me when I say that there is absolutly nothing for kids to do in the summer. I think that this will really help the economy in Salina and finally give the kids something to do and open up a few more summer jobs for teens.
12/11/2008
Yep thats what I said says....
I know of a way to help pay for the park. How about the cops ticketing people that drive like idiots instead of looking the other way. Just sit at a busy intersection for oh say 10 minutes and watch then you will know what I mean.
12/9/2008
mmr15 says....
Everyone who doesn't want the pool is probably an old person and doesn't care about this city anymore. With the addition of the pool we will have a better economy because of the visitors coming in to town using the pool. Also from my understanding people who come through town pay the tax too, so that's not a bad deal at all!
11/12/2008
Robe says....
I only have one complaint about the aquatic center. My complaint is about the design of the "lazy river." The lazy river is a very good idea and can be the most fun of all features at the park. My complaint about the lazy river that is proposed with this park, is the size. The width, and depth are too small. I have been to several water parks and aquatic centers across the country, and the size of these "lazy rivers" is the determinant of how enjoyable and fun they are. When they are small and restricted to tube riding only, they are enjoyable for one or two trips around. When they bare widened and around 40 inches deep, they are far more enjoyable and can present hours of fun before a person grows tired of being so restricted.
11/6/2008
Ashley says....
I am employed at a local hotel. People come to Salina and ask me, "What is there to do in Salina for families?" The biggest traveling season for families with children of course is in the summer. And NO we really don't have much for families with kids to do. Jumpin' Joes but we All know that really isn't worth the money spent there. And obviously you people haven't read ALL of the material Salina Commisioners have provided because if you had you would know they have set up a scholarship program for those who would struggle paying for admission. Also, Oceans of Fun is great. but thats at least a 3 1/2 hour drive. Most of us can't afford the gas. On top of that the hotel DO NOT allow you to buy a pass to swim in their pool. Their pools are for their guests there are 2 hotels in town that allow you to do that and notice they aren't the higher scale hotels they are the ma & pa hotels whose pools aren't even maintenced on a daily basis. So, for you complainers you will always complain. GET OVER IT! YOU WILL NEVER BE SATISFIED WITH WHAT SALINA TRIES TO DO. I believe this idea for a water park is awesome! I do agree we have many roads that need attention but so what? Obviously if you read the SALINA CITIZEN you would know EXACTLY what they are planning on doing with the tax money and they are not just abandoning our streets they are obviously working on them currently. I am embarassed to say I am from this town of greedy non-cooperating people. And if you parents would start spending more time with your children instead of letting them run the streets, teach them work ethic we wouldn't have a problem finding lifeguards to work at the aquatic park. Think again Salina do some more investigating and you will find this plan is more thought out than you think. It's a great idea! Thanks Salina Commissioners
10/18/2008
YES says....
I live an hour away from Salina, and I know my family as well as many others would drive to Salina for a water park. We have quite a few people who drive to Hays for their water park, and it is nothing compared to what you are proposing. Also, Salina is a closer drive for us. I think this is a great idea!
10/8/2008
Later Salina says....
I think the park is a great idea but too bad I won't be here to see it cause I've lived here for over 25 yrs and I can't stand this town anymore. From disrespectful people to the wonder city council who thinks this town is the best need to be give n drug test to see what it is they are on. Think that is the case. Private investors are the way to go!!!
10/3/2008
bratt says....
I like many are struggling. I am tired of driving to Mcpherson to swim. I am a life long citizen of Salina, except for two months in TN and have only swam at this pool maybe twice as a child. Mind you I Love to swim. But I agree with one of the other posted comments...Lower are water rates, quit charging us more for water even after we have had a flood. We are taxed to death in this state, I should of stayed in TN. $25 to $35 for yearly taxes for my car, no matter how new the vehicle. Now you want to tax us somemore...
10/1/2008
123KIDS! says....
All of you who say that we dont need a water park are old grumps who cant use it! It might cost us some money but it will bring in more money once we get it and our population will go up because of the kids and we wont have to get mad because all of our people are going to MCPHERSON EVREYDAY TO go to the water Park!
9/29/2008
think a second says....
For all intents people. The proposed tax to pay for this isn't actually an increase. We are already paying the quarter cent tax, the use of the tax will just shift too the pool project. Dang, I swear, so many of you people don't seem to comprehend everything, only the negative bits. Then you all whine and cry about it. What really takes the cake is, I would be willing to wager that a good number of you also complain that there isn't any thing for your kids to do during the summer break, and that the old pool costs too much to maintain and on and on and on. Guess what, fun family stuff to do doesn't come without a price tag. Every one wants Salina to catch up with the times, but nobody wants to help that happen. My goodness, is an extra quarter for every hundred dollars in purchases really gonna send you to bankruptcy court? And Yes, I AM A TAX PAYER . Got a job and everything. Does any of the proposed pool bother me? Not at all. I like Salina, just don't like all the dang whining. Get a grip and actually read allllll the information people. Not just the bits that you can complain about.
9/21/2008
RES says....
As I recall, the city once had the option to purchase the YWCA which had a pretty nice pool inside (and could be used 12 months). The price was a bargain, too! Does the YMCA have a pool that can be used year-round? Remember when the technology tax came around - and we were told that it would only be for 3 years? If this pool goes thru, my house will be up for sale the next day!
9/20/2008
just me says....
Looks and sounds great, but We the people can not afford more taxes. And how will you find 40 lifegaurds willing to work for min wage. Ready by 2010? what a joke, the city can't even finnish a bridge.
9/18/2008
Working taxpayer says....
This is totally ridiculous to be thinking of such a costly project that will be used by so few people. Our summers are not 90 days long anymore, with school starting so early in August and not all summer days are weather permitting. We are in extremely difficult finacial times and we should be considerate of what tax payers can afford. As for me a community swimming pool worked fine and I was not traumatized, growing up without a waterpark, that's what "oceans of fun" is for. Salina taxpayers can not afford this goofball idea. I would be curious to know how many people voting for this are actually taxpayers.
9/15/2008
LeZlIe LaRsOn says....
i think this is a great waiste of money
9/12/2008
randy says....
A total waste of taxpayers money. Why not scale it back alittle and make it a indoor water park. This could be used year round, instead of just 3 months. People driving the two interstates aren't going to divert 3 miles to come to a outdoor swimming pool. Salina people can now buy passes to use at many hotel pools, some are indoor. How about the city subsidizing these hotels for the use of their pools. And of course there is always the YMCA pool. Of course the city owned a good indoor pool, "YWCA" but elected to give it away. Our city government is very wasteful and have no common sense.
9/12/2008
rancher says....
A total waste of taxpayers money. Why not scale it back alittle and make it a indoor water park. This could be used year round, instead of just 3 months. People driving the two interstates aren't going to divert 3 miles to come to a outdoor swimming pool. Salina people can now buy passes to use at many hotel pools, some are indoor. How about the city subsidizing these hotels for the use of their pools. And of course there is always the YMCA pool. Of course the city owned a good indoor pool, "YWCA" but elected to give it away. Our city government is very wasteful and have no common sense.
9/12/2008
kly says....
The pool plans may be wonderful, but will the children in Salina be able to afford admission price on a daily basis?
9/12/2008
MKLARSEN says....
What will be the cost to enter the park as you have planned now? Is the average child going to afford this? There are lots of children that this is all they can afford to do in the summer. Many families have both parents working and still can't make ends meet. Those are the children we surely ought to reach out to.
9/11/2008
Chris says....
I'm OK with the proposed plan, but, I think you will miss out by not including the wave surfing feature. I've seen this feature in other places and it is very popular, good exercise. If you want to increase the price tag for this park, add more variety, make part or all an indoor facility (like Great Wolf Lodge) instead of making the 50 meter pool.
9/11/2008
Smooth Roads with the AQUA PARK? when you VOTE YES! says....
50 meters would be nice but not the additional cost. CUT something else from the park or just do a 25 meter pool. Salina competative swimming is not large enough to warrant the additional COST for the 50 meters!
9/10/2008
Steve Ewing says....
The YMCA has a 25 meter pool. McPherson has a 50 meter pool. Look at both of them and I think that you will agree that a 50 meter pool is the correct one for Salina. A 25 meter pool is too small for a city of 45,000 people.
9/10/2008
Something Old... says....
Since day #1 I have been amazed that they decided to propose that this pool be built in the same place as last time. What have they learned? Apparently nothing. Building a brand new 12 million dollar facility in an old part of town that visitors never frequent is ridiculous. Since moving to Salina 12 years ago, i have been forever amazed how commissioners continue to favor the old parts of the city and ignore new prospects. Location, Location, Location...this thing is getting voted down again!!
9/10/2008
It is what it appears to be! Control!!! says....
when you cannot report with accuracy you lose reliability. The question on the front page REMAINS in contradition to the actual online articles and proposal! A 25 meter pool is in the Proposal not a 25 yard pool.
9/10/2008
BB says....
Its way too much for the city of Salina to maintain. And I really don't think we need ALL that. We need a pool and that will do
9/10/2008
Excited says....
Thank you for bringing this to the citizens of Salina! Families should not have to drive 30 miles to go swimming in a decent pool. This will bring people into Salina and keep citizens in town to spend their dollars. It's an exciting day when a city brings a fun and healthy activity to town!
9/9/2008
Mr.D says....
Just curious on what the price for admittance would be? Don't want something I can't afford to enjoy.
9/9/2008
Another former Salinan says....
I have considered moving back to Salina but it's spending like this that will keep me away. I think it's ridiculous that taxpayer money would be used to build a waterpark. This is something that should be built by private investors. There's a reason that hasn't happened. Too bad the bubbleheads that blow taxpayer money haven't figured it out. On a recent visit to Salina I could not believe the condition of the streets and the costs of services like trash and water. And that's after property taxes have doubled in the past 10 years. Property taxes are incredibly expensive for a town the size of Salina. Over the past 20 years I have seen time and time again money wasted on stuff like this while things public services and streets go down hill. Given the condition of the economy in the US and the foreseeable future, a project like this shouldn't have even been considered. I have to question the intelligence of Salinans that keep voting these people into office.
9/9/2008
says....
I love the whole water park project. We need a good facility that we can be proud of and have it draw people in from the surrounding areas. So many people go to McPherson's water park and I think this is a first class facility for Salina. I don't think we need the Olympic sized pool, the fun features is what's going to draw them in. I don't have much faith in the voters of Salina though, they tend to be stick in the muds for fun activities that involve the whole family. They tend to patronize a new bar or restaurant instead of a family facility. I guess we could not vote for the water park and just send our families to the water feature that Kansas Wesleyan is building, that way it wouldn't cost Salina anything and we could still get the slip and slide fun filled adventure!! Please vote for the water park, it will be a great investment for Salina.
9/9/2008
12.5 mill is alot of lazy river! says....
The question on the front page is stated Unfairly. A 25 meter pool is planned in the current proposal as stated in the actual article not a 25 yard pool. The question is stated incorrectly, do you favor a 25 yard pool or a 50 meter pool. Pool Question 09/08/2008 The consultants for the City of Salina have released the plans for the proposed water park. The plans include a 25-yard lap pool. Are you in favor of a 25-yard or 50-meter lap pool? 25-yard lap pool 50-meter lap pool
9/9/2008
A struggling tax payer already says....
I'm a mother of two who has gone to other towns for their water parks and had alot of fun. What gets me is yes these things are fun and great to have but the cost of these parks are crazy for just a few months a year. I agree with a commit someone made about maybe an indoor park so its getting the use that we are hopeing for and we tax payers are getting our moneys worth.I like the idea don't get me wrong just thats alot of money for something that can only be used for a few months a year and to raise our taxes aren't they enough already we are struggling already don't you think?
9/9/2008
weezer says....
Looks like the circus has come to town... It won't pass, wait and see... Be reasonable in your plans!
9/9/2008
----------------------- says....
come on....in all fairness in regard to the question on the front page... Pool Question 09/08/2008. You did change 50 yard to 50 meter. 25 yard should be changed too, to meters! The article with the current proposal states 25 meter pool is included. No to YARDS! either size!
9/9/2008
Don't WANT or NEED it all! says....
A 25 meter pool can also be used for competative swimming summer season competitions or organized Triatlons. It is called short course meters- 25 meters. VS Long Course Meters- 50 meters. Either one will be nice to have. I say cross off the Wave Pool, if you install the 50 meter pool... SO much money already! These facilities will have to be funded and maintained, we already know the past/current history of maintenance and up-keep in Salina!
9/9/2008
Swimmer says....
LOL I'd love to be a former Salinan too! I do agree with your perspective...screw it up they will. The roads are lousy, the ohio bridge a joke!
9/9/2008
Rob Lay says....
+1 on the 50 meter competitive pool, ideally the diving well would be separate and there would be 8 lanes. Not sure how the survey was done, but lap pools never gain much excitement compared to slides. I think it may add more value than any other single component of the plan, yet there is resistance with an additional $1.5 M when the overall project costs $12.5 M? That is only 12% of the budget! I think a combination of cuts in other areas plus fund raising should make the competitive pool happen. Please consider… 1) Community health benefits of a lap pool. 2) Economic impact of having major swim meets & triathlons in Salina. 3) Lap pool will be more utilized by adults. 4) Lap pool isn't just for laps, but wading, swim lessons, water aerobics, etc.
9/9/2008
Swimmer says....
IF a competative swimmer in Salian does has the dream of being an Olympian swimmmer, they better move from Salina NOW! NO Swim Coach in this town has coaching qualities to train an Olympian! A LOT more will have to change other than the size of the POOL! The part design overall is excessive... I agree with a 25 meter or 50 meter pool.
9/9/2008
former Salinan says....
What an amazing design. A first class water park for Salina to be truly proud to have for it's citizens. Oh wait...I'm sure that you all will manage to screw this up just like you screw up every other good thing that comes along.
9/9/2008
Michael Paul says....
It is said that the 50 meter pool is set at the bottom. If someone has the dream to got to the Olympics some day that person will likly have to move out of Salina because to perfect skill like that you have to be practicing in a 50 meter pool. And sure the 50 meter pool ranked at the bottom because your survey only said lap swim not 50 meter pool and what materal have been published of advantages of 50 meter pool. There are ways to design it so you can make use of the 50 meter pool. Why could you not keep the diving dept in and you would only have mabe four lap roped off for lap swim because you do not need a diving are during a swim meet. This is just one idea off the top of my head and I sure if it is thought and planed out with the idea of making the most out of it.
9/9/2008
Salina.com doesn't necessarily condone the comments here. Read our full online terms of service policy.
cynic says....
I think the water park is a great idea. As long as I don't have to pay for it. Pay to play is my motto. If it covers expenses and the city isn't subsidizing it GREAT! Of course we all know that won't happen, and we'll all pay for the welfare folks to go swimming...Hey, will the snack stand take food stamps for soda's and candy bars??????
12/17/2008
teenboredinthesummerinsalina says....
I think the water park would be a great addition to Salina. I grew up in Salina and still move back home from college in the summer and I think all teenagers and kids can vouche for me when I say that there is absolutly nothing for kids to do in the summer. I think that this will really help the economy in Salina and finally give the kids something to do and open up a few more summer jobs for teens.
12/11/2008
Yep thats what I said says....
I know of a way to help pay for the park. How about the cops ticketing people that drive like idiots instead of looking the other way. Just sit at a busy intersection for oh say 10 minutes and watch then you will know what I mean.
12/9/2008
mmr15 says....
Everyone who doesn't want the pool is probably an old person and doesn't care about this city anymore. With the addition of the pool we will have a better economy because of the visitors coming in to town using the pool. Also from my understanding people who come through town pay the tax too, so that's not a bad deal at all!
11/12/2008
Robe says....
I only have one complaint about the aquatic center. My complaint is about the design of the "lazy river." The lazy river is a very good idea and can be the most fun of all features at the park. My complaint about the lazy river that is proposed with this park, is the size. The width, and depth are too small. I have been to several water parks and aquatic centers across the country, and the size of these "lazy rivers" is the determinant of how enjoyable and fun they are. When they are small and restricted to tube riding only, they are enjoyable for one or two trips around. When they bare widened and around 40 inches deep, they are far more enjoyable and can present hours of fun before a person grows tired of being so restricted.
11/6/2008
Ashley says....
I am employed at a local hotel. People come to Salina and ask me, "What is there to do in Salina for families?" The biggest traveling season for families with children of course is in the summer. And NO we really don't have much for families with kids to do. Jumpin' Joes but we All know that really isn't worth the money spent there. And obviously you people haven't read ALL of the material Salina Commisioners have provided because if you had you would know they have set up a scholarship program for those who would struggle paying for admission. Also, Oceans of Fun is great. but thats at least a 3 1/2 hour drive. Most of us can't afford the gas. On top of that the hotel DO NOT allow you to buy a pass to swim in their pool. Their pools are for their guests there are 2 hotels in town that allow you to do that and notice they aren't the higher scale hotels they are the ma & pa hotels whose pools aren't even maintenced on a daily basis. So, for you complainers you will always complain. GET OVER IT! YOU WILL NEVER BE SATISFIED WITH WHAT SALINA TRIES TO DO. I believe this idea for a water park is awesome! I do agree we have many roads that need attention but so what? Obviously if you read the SALINA CITIZEN you would know EXACTLY what they are planning on doing with the tax money and they are not just abandoning our streets they are obviously working on them currently. I am embarassed to say I am from this town of greedy non-cooperating people. And if you parents would start spending more time with your children instead of letting them run the streets, teach them work ethic we wouldn't have a problem finding lifeguards to work at the aquatic park. Think again Salina do some more investigating and you will find this plan is more thought out than you think. It's a great idea! Thanks Salina Commissioners
10/18/2008
YES says....
I live an hour away from Salina, and I know my family as well as many others would drive to Salina for a water park. We have quite a few people who drive to Hays for their water park, and it is nothing compared to what you are proposing. Also, Salina is a closer drive for us. I think this is a great idea!
10/8/2008
Later Salina says....
I think the park is a great idea but too bad I won't be here to see it cause I've lived here for over 25 yrs and I can't stand this town anymore. From disrespectful people to the wonder city council who thinks this town is the best need to be give n drug test to see what it is they are on. Think that is the case. Private investors are the way to go!!!
10/3/2008
bratt says....
I like many are struggling. I am tired of driving to Mcpherson to swim. I am a life long citizen of Salina, except for two months in TN and have only swam at this pool maybe twice as a child. Mind you I Love to swim. But I agree with one of the other posted comments...Lower are water rates, quit charging us more for water even after we have had a flood. We are taxed to death in this state, I should of stayed in TN. $25 to $35 for yearly taxes for my car, no matter how new the vehicle. Now you want to tax us somemore...
10/1/2008
123KIDS! says....
All of you who say that we dont need a water park are old grumps who cant use it! It might cost us some money but it will bring in more money once we get it and our population will go up because of the kids and we wont have to get mad because all of our people are going to MCPHERSON EVREYDAY TO go to the water Park!
9/29/2008
think a second says....
For all intents people. The proposed tax to pay for this isn't actually an increase. We are already paying the quarter cent tax, the use of the tax will just shift too the pool project. Dang, I swear, so many of you people don't seem to comprehend everything, only the negative bits. Then you all whine and cry about it. What really takes the cake is, I would be willing to wager that a good number of you also complain that there isn't any thing for your kids to do during the summer break, and that the old pool costs too much to maintain and on and on and on. Guess what, fun family stuff to do doesn't come without a price tag. Every one wants Salina to catch up with the times, but nobody wants to help that happen. My goodness, is an extra quarter for every hundred dollars in purchases really gonna send you to bankruptcy court? And Yes, I AM A TAX PAYER . Got a job and everything. Does any of the proposed pool bother me? Not at all. I like Salina, just don't like all the dang whining. Get a grip and actually read allllll the information people. Not just the bits that you can complain about.
9/21/2008
RES says....
As I recall, the city once had the option to purchase the YWCA which had a pretty nice pool inside (and could be used 12 months). The price was a bargain, too! Does the YMCA have a pool that can be used year-round? Remember when the technology tax came around - and we were told that it would only be for 3 years? If this pool goes thru, my house will be up for sale the next day!
9/20/2008
just me says....
Looks and sounds great, but We the people can not afford more taxes. And how will you find 40 lifegaurds willing to work for min wage. Ready by 2010? what a joke, the city can't even finnish a bridge.
9/18/2008
Working taxpayer says....
This is totally ridiculous to be thinking of such a costly project that will be used by so few people. Our summers are not 90 days long anymore, with school starting so early in August and not all summer days are weather permitting. We are in extremely difficult finacial times and we should be considerate of what tax payers can afford. As for me a community swimming pool worked fine and I was not traumatized, growing up without a waterpark, that's what "oceans of fun" is for. Salina taxpayers can not afford this goofball idea. I would be curious to know how many people voting for this are actually taxpayers.
9/15/2008
LeZlIe LaRsOn says....
i think this is a great waiste of money
9/12/2008
randy says....
A total waste of taxpayers money. Why not scale it back alittle and make it a indoor water park. This could be used year round, instead of just 3 months. People driving the two interstates aren't going to divert 3 miles to come to a outdoor swimming pool. Salina people can now buy passes to use at many hotel pools, some are indoor. How about the city subsidizing these hotels for the use of their pools. And of course there is always the YMCA pool. Of course the city owned a good indoor pool, "YWCA" but elected to give it away. Our city government is very wasteful and have no common sense.
9/12/2008
rancher says....
A total waste of taxpayers money. Why not scale it back alittle and make it a indoor water park. This could be used year round, instead of just 3 months. People driving the two interstates aren't going to divert 3 miles to come to a outdoor swimming pool. Salina people can now buy passes to use at many hotel pools, some are indoor. How about the city subsidizing these hotels for the use of their pools. And of course there is always the YMCA pool. Of course the city owned a good indoor pool, "YWCA" but elected to give it away. Our city government is very wasteful and have no common sense.
9/12/2008
kly says....
The pool plans may be wonderful, but will the children in Salina be able to afford admission price on a daily basis?
9/12/2008
MKLARSEN says....
What will be the cost to enter the park as you have planned now? Is the average child going to afford this? There are lots of children that this is all they can afford to do in the summer. Many families have both parents working and still can't make ends meet. Those are the children we surely ought to reach out to.
9/11/2008
Chris says....
I'm OK with the proposed plan, but, I think you will miss out by not including the wave surfing feature. I've seen this feature in other places and it is very popular, good exercise. If you want to increase the price tag for this park, add more variety, make part or all an indoor facility (like Great Wolf Lodge) instead of making the 50 meter pool.
9/11/2008
Smooth Roads with the AQUA PARK? when you VOTE YES! says....
50 meters would be nice but not the additional cost. CUT something else from the park or just do a 25 meter pool. Salina competative swimming is not large enough to warrant the additional COST for the 50 meters!
9/10/2008
Steve Ewing says....
The YMCA has a 25 meter pool. McPherson has a 50 meter pool. Look at both of them and I think that you will agree that a 50 meter pool is the correct one for Salina. A 25 meter pool is too small for a city of 45,000 people.
9/10/2008
Something Old... says....
Since day #1 I have been amazed that they decided to propose that this pool be built in the same place as last time. What have they learned? Apparently nothing. Building a brand new 12 million dollar facility in an old part of town that visitors never frequent is ridiculous. Since moving to Salina 12 years ago, i have been forever amazed how commissioners continue to favor the old parts of the city and ignore new prospects. Location, Location, Location...this thing is getting voted down again!!
9/10/2008
It is what it appears to be! Control!!! says....
when you cannot report with accuracy you lose reliability. The question on the front page REMAINS in contradition to the actual online articles and proposal! A 25 meter pool is in the Proposal not a 25 yard pool.
9/10/2008
BB says....
Its way too much for the city of Salina to maintain. And I really don't think we need ALL that. We need a pool and that will do
9/10/2008
Excited says....
Thank you for bringing this to the citizens of Salina! Families should not have to drive 30 miles to go swimming in a decent pool. This will bring people into Salina and keep citizens in town to spend their dollars. It's an exciting day when a city brings a fun and healthy activity to town!
9/9/2008
Mr.D says....
Just curious on what the price for admittance would be? Don't want something I can't afford to enjoy.
9/9/2008
Another former Salinan says....
I have considered moving back to Salina but it's spending like this that will keep me away. I think it's ridiculous that taxpayer money would be used to build a waterpark. This is something that should be built by private investors. There's a reason that hasn't happened. Too bad the bubbleheads that blow taxpayer money haven't figured it out. On a recent visit to Salina I could not believe the condition of the streets and the costs of services like trash and water. And that's after property taxes have doubled in the past 10 years. Property taxes are incredibly expensive for a town the size of Salina. Over the past 20 years I have seen time and time again money wasted on stuff like this while things public services and streets go down hill. Given the condition of the economy in the US and the foreseeable future, a project like this shouldn't have even been considered. I have to question the intelligence of Salinans that keep voting these people into office.
9/9/2008
says....
I love the whole water park project. We need a good facility that we can be proud of and have it draw people in from the surrounding areas. So many people go to McPherson's water park and I think this is a first class facility for Salina. I don't think we need the Olympic sized pool, the fun features is what's going to draw them in. I don't have much faith in the voters of Salina though, they tend to be stick in the muds for fun activities that involve the whole family. They tend to patronize a new bar or restaurant instead of a family facility. I guess we could not vote for the water park and just send our families to the water feature that Kansas Wesleyan is building, that way it wouldn't cost Salina anything and we could still get the slip and slide fun filled adventure!! Please vote for the water park, it will be a great investment for Salina.
9/9/2008
12.5 mill is alot of lazy river! says....
The question on the front page is stated Unfairly. A 25 meter pool is planned in the current proposal as stated in the actual article not a 25 yard pool. The question is stated incorrectly, do you favor a 25 yard pool or a 50 meter pool. Pool Question 09/08/2008 The consultants for the City of Salina have released the plans for the proposed water park. The plans include a 25-yard lap pool. Are you in favor of a 25-yard or 50-meter lap pool? 25-yard lap pool 50-meter lap pool
9/9/2008
A struggling tax payer already says....
I'm a mother of two who has gone to other towns for their water parks and had alot of fun. What gets me is yes these things are fun and great to have but the cost of these parks are crazy for just a few months a year. I agree with a commit someone made about maybe an indoor park so its getting the use that we are hopeing for and we tax payers are getting our moneys worth.I like the idea don't get me wrong just thats alot of money for something that can only be used for a few months a year and to raise our taxes aren't they enough already we are struggling already don't you think?
9/9/2008
weezer says....
Looks like the circus has come to town... It won't pass, wait and see... Be reasonable in your plans!
9/9/2008
----------------------- says....
come on....in all fairness in regard to the question on the front page... Pool Question 09/08/2008. You did change 50 yard to 50 meter. 25 yard should be changed too, to meters! The article with the current proposal states 25 meter pool is included. No to YARDS! either size!
9/9/2008
Don't WANT or NEED it all! says....
A 25 meter pool can also be used for competative swimming summer season competitions or organized Triatlons. It is called short course meters- 25 meters. VS Long Course Meters- 50 meters. Either one will be nice to have. I say cross off the Wave Pool, if you install the 50 meter pool... SO much money already! These facilities will have to be funded and maintained, we already know the past/current history of maintenance and up-keep in Salina!
9/9/2008
Swimmer says....
LOL I'd love to be a former Salinan too! I do agree with your perspective...screw it up they will. The roads are lousy, the ohio bridge a joke!
9/9/2008
Rob Lay says....
+1 on the 50 meter competitive pool, ideally the diving well would be separate and there would be 8 lanes. Not sure how the survey was done, but lap pools never gain much excitement compared to slides. I think it may add more value than any other single component of the plan, yet there is resistance with an additional $1.5 M when the overall project costs $12.5 M? That is only 12% of the budget! I think a combination of cuts in other areas plus fund raising should make the competitive pool happen. Please consider… 1) Community health benefits of a lap pool. 2) Economic impact of having major swim meets & triathlons in Salina. 3) Lap pool will be more utilized by adults. 4) Lap pool isn't just for laps, but wading, swim lessons, water aerobics, etc.
9/9/2008
Swimmer says....
IF a competative swimmer in Salian does has the dream of being an Olympian swimmmer, they better move from Salina NOW! NO Swim Coach in this town has coaching qualities to train an Olympian! A LOT more will have to change other than the size of the POOL! The part design overall is excessive... I agree with a 25 meter or 50 meter pool.
9/9/2008
former Salinan says....
What an amazing design. A first class water park for Salina to be truly proud to have for it's citizens. Oh wait...I'm sure that you all will manage to screw this up just like you screw up every other good thing that comes along.
9/9/2008
Michael Paul says....
It is said that the 50 meter pool is set at the bottom. If someone has the dream to got to the Olympics some day that person will likly have to move out of Salina because to perfect skill like that you have to be practicing in a 50 meter pool. And sure the 50 meter pool ranked at the bottom because your survey only said lap swim not 50 meter pool and what materal have been published of advantages of 50 meter pool. There are ways to design it so you can make use of the 50 meter pool. Why could you not keep the diving dept in and you would only have mabe four lap roped off for lap swim because you do not need a diving are during a swim meet. This is just one idea off the top of my head and I sure if it is thought and planed out with the idea of making the most out of it.
9/9/2008
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