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Design team details natatorium and fitness-center conversion; construction targeted for mid‑2026–2027
Summary
Gibraltar Design presented updated plans to convert the old pool to gymnastics, a rehab and fitness center and to expand the weight room; presenters said bidding is planned for February with construction starting May–June 2026 and substantial completion aimed for July 2027.
Architects from Gibraltar Design briefed the Tri-Creek School Corporation board on an updated design for the Lowell High School natatorium and related athletic improvements, including conversion of the old pool into gymnastics, a new fitness center and an expanded weight room.
Chris Kingery opened the presentation and introduced project architect Mike Rizzillo, who walked trustees through floor plans and finishes. Rizzillo described removing the concrete slab of the old pool to create a two‑level gymnastics space, installing a new floor system, LED lighting, and a new HVAC/air‑handling system designed for athletics and rehab use. "We're removing the concrete slab, and you're gonna have a new floor system in there," Rizzillo said while outlining the conversion steps.
The weight and cardio rooms will be combined into a larger fitness space with rubber flooring, center turf for agility drills, expanded equipment and mirrored walls. The upper level will provide a cheerleading practice area with curtains separating the field house and gymnastics space; the natatorium shell will be finished out to add a fitness center and associated equipment.
On schedule and budget: the design team told the board Skillman is expected to issue the bid in February, presenters will provide a final board presentation in January, and the team anticipates starting construction in May–June 2026 with an estimated completion in July 2027. Kingery noted the project team and construction manager (Skillman and Harthead) will perform multiple rounds of estimates “to make sure we’re still within our budget.”
Board members asked technical questions about insulation, exposed ceilings in the fitness center and site details; presenters confirmed the fitness center will be an exposed structure and described where the former chiller yard was infilled. Trustees also discussed community access and membership hours, with presenters saying the fitness center is designed for flexible use by both school and community groups.
What’s next: the team will finalize interior finishes and technology selections in upcoming meetings, return with a finished presentation for board review in January, and proceed toward the bid issuance in February.
