Stockton weighs $4.6M in urgent pool repairs versus $50M‑class regional aquatic center

Stockton — City staff on Nov. 4 presented a 2024 pool needs assessment that lays out three paths: do code and compliance repairs to reopen aging neighborhood pools, modernize individual pools, or consolidate investment into a single contemporary aquatic complex.

The report estimates roughly $4.6 million to bring five aging pools into code and operational readiness. If the city instead modernized all facilities — replacement filtration, locker rooms and major amenities — the total rose to more than $32 million and nearly $37 million when combined with minimum repairs. Staff cited a conceptual regional aquatics complex (Olympic‑sized pool, slides and splash amenities) with an informal ballpark figure of about $50 million, noting that the number depends on final scope and acreage.

Council members pressed staff about funding options, timing and the city’s ability to operate facilities year‑round. Staff said existing CIP budgets include partial allocations (about $800,000 for Souza Pool; Oak Park has funds that still leave a roughly $2.0M shortfall after preliminary design assumptions changed). Council directed staff to return with usage statistics, maintenance and operating cost history, funding scenarios and a project development plan for a potential Oak Park regional aquatic center, and to pursue MOUs with Stockton and Manteca Unified School Districts for summer pool access.

Several council members and residents called for creative revenue strategies and clearer timelines before committing to large capital choices; some asked whether targeted splash‑pad investments would better meet neighborhood needs while limiting operating burdens.

Staff said phasing, design completion and a funded project package would be necessary to pursue grants and private partners.