Wheat Ridge plans community engagement for Anderson Pool replacement discussions

The Wheat Ridge City Council convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss significant community projects, including the future of the aging Anderson Pool. City officials presented a comprehensive plan for community engagement aimed at gathering input on whether to replace the pool, which has served residents since 1979, or to close it when it reaches the end of its useful life in the next few years.

The discussion highlighted the pool's deteriorating condition, with a recent assessment estimating that immediate repairs could cost around $1.1 million. However, these repairs would not address the long-term viability of the facility, which is increasingly costly to maintain. City officials emphasized the need for a full replacement rather than a partial renovation, as the infrastructure is outdated and inadequate for current usage demands.

To gauge community sentiment, the city plans to conduct outreach from April to August 2025, coinciding with the summer pool season. This engagement will include surveys, tabling at community events, and discussions with various stakeholder groups, including swim clubs and local organizations. The goal is to educate residents about the pool's issues and gather feedback on desired amenities for a potential new facility.

City officials also discussed funding challenges, noting that while there are limited grants available for such projects, they plan to apply for the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grant in August. This federal program could provide crucial financial support for the pool's replacement.

Council members expressed their hopes for community support, recognizing the pool's importance to local families and the need for creative solutions to secure funding. They discussed the possibility of public-private partnerships and other innovative financing options to ensure the pool's future.

As the council moves forward, the community's input will be vital in shaping the direction of this project, which aims to enhance recreational opportunities for Wheat Ridge residents. The council's commitment to transparency and engagement reflects a broader goal of fostering community involvement in local governance and decision-making.