Boulder plans $10M aquatics repairs at South Rec Center amid funding discussions

The Boulder City Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting on July 10, 2025, focused on significant repair and maintenance plans for the South Boulder Recreation Center, alongside discussions about future funding and community needs for aquatic facilities.

The meeting highlighted a request for bids for extensive repair work at the South Boulder Rec Center. Key projects include replastering the pool, installing large fans for improved air circulation in the aquatics area, and repairing the HVAC system. The board noted that these repairs would likely necessitate a temporary closure of the pool, with plans to minimize disruption by scheduling the work during the summer months when outdoor pools are available.

A major topic of discussion was the community's demand for swimming facilities. Board members expressed concerns about the financial viability of aquatic programs, noting that while many facilities generate revenue through fees, none have proven to be profitable enterprises. The board is collaborating with a local aquatics coalition to explore options for meeting the community's swimming needs.

Financial stewardship and sustainability were also key points of discussion. Board members acknowledged the challenges of retrofitting older facilities to meet current energy codes, which can significantly impact costs. The conversation included the potential implications if the upcoming "Fund Our Future" initiative does not pass, with members indicating that tough choices would need to be made regarding service levels and facility maintenance.

The board is preparing a report that will outline the future needs of the recreation centers, including whether facilities like the South Boulder Rec Center require complete rebuilding or if others can be maintained with minor upgrades. This report is expected to provide clarity on the necessary actions moving forward.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of addressing both immediate repair needs and long-term planning for the community's recreational facilities, while also navigating the financial challenges that come with maintaining public services.