Paramount High aquatics options presented; consultants and board favor comprehensive campus reconfiguration

PBK consultants presented an update to the district’s facility master plan on June 11 and tested three feasibility options for an aquatic center at Paramount High School.

Option 1 would place a new two‑story, 20‑classroom building and an aquatic center within existing campus footprints with minimal site disturbance but limited pool visibility and reduced courtyard space. Option 2 calls for a 32‑classroom two‑story building with a street‑facing aquatic facility that would require demolition of existing classrooms and temporary housing during construction. Option 3 proposes a comprehensive campus reconfiguration that shifts athletic fields and courts to create space for a pool and supporting facilities; while the most costly, presenters said it yields the largest parking gains (an estimated 265 additional stalls overall in the scheme shown) and avoids interim housing because much of the work occurs in open fields.

Consultants emphasized community input (about 200 survey respondents) and site assessments that flagged needs such as portable removal and roof repairs. Several board members voiced support for Option 3, citing long‑term value, visibility for the aquatic center and improved traffic and parking circulation. The board discussion also touched on potential repurposing of the adult education site for community services, such as a health clinic or foster‑youth support center, and concerns about classroom space and administrative structuring if campuses are consolidated.

PBK said test fits are conceptual and not final designs; additional planning, cost refinement and stakeholder work would follow before any construction decision.

"Option three...is actually probably the most bang for your buck in terms of long run in terms of efficiency and streamlining," a PBK representative said when describing tradeoffs among the schemes.