Marshall officials report substantial progress on new aquatic center; tours available with restrictions

City staff updated the Marshall City Council on construction progress at the new aquatic center, showing drone footage and still images and describing recent on-site work, including slide footings, roofing and mechanical installations.

Preston, a city staff presenter, said roofs on both buildings are "significantly done," that slide footings and platforms are in place, and that the mechanical and filtration equipment is installed in the mechanical-room basement. He said contractors plan to perform a water test of the deep pool and that the pool finish (described in the meeting as a diamond-brite or similar finish) will be installed in spring because the final finish cures under water.

Preston also noted that the project team plans to apply temporary heat to the mechanical areas this winter so work can continue inside while exterior work pauses, and that much of the visible progress occurs daily even when the site may not look busy from the road. He praised the coordination among local contractors and described the schedule as "significantly on schedule." The council's aquatic-center committee is meeting the next day, and Preston encouraged council members who have not toured the site to contact staff; Pam Whitmore and others advised that any informal council tours be arranged so fewer than a quorum attend to avoid open-meeting complications and to ensure visitor safety on an active construction site.

Council members who have visited the site recounted being impressed with the progress and encouraged other members to schedule a visit. Preston said staff can accommodate evening or weekend visits and reminded members that hard hats and high-visibility vests are required for site access.