Kirkland Council hears proposal for year-round aquatic facility improvement from Splash Forward

The Kirkland City Council meeting on July 1, 2025, kicked off with a significant focus on expanding aquatic facilities in the community. Susan Papalardo, co-founder and president of the nonprofit Splash Forward, addressed the council, advocating for enhanced year-round swim programs and facilities to meet the growing demand for aquatic access.

Papalardo emphasized the importance of winterizing the Peter Kirk Pool, presenting "Option 2" as the most viable choice. This option proposes upgrading the existing wading pool into a fully enclosed activity pool, which would not only increase access to swim lessons for all ages and abilities but also support family recreation and adult fitness programs. She highlighted that this investment aligns with the city's budget and long-term plans for a new indoor aquatic center.

The proposed upgrades would include essential improvements such as expanded changing facilities and a new lifeguard office, which would enhance user experience and potentially improve cost recovery for the facility. Papalardo urged the council to consider these factors as they deliberate on the future of the pool, stressing that the community would greatly benefit from continued outdoor lap swimming during the summer months.

The meeting also featured a structured public comment period, allowing residents to voice their opinions while maintaining decorum. The council's commitment to fostering a respectful environment for public discourse was reiterated, ensuring that all community members feel welcome to participate in discussions about local issues.

As the council moves forward with these discussions, the potential for expanded aquatic programming in Kirkland remains a key topic, promising to enhance community health and engagement.