MVA explores options for aquatic center
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POLSON — To explore all possibilities for its planned aquatic center, the Mission Valley Aquatics Board met with the Polson City Commissioners on Nov. 30 to discuss the possibility of an alternative site.
“Mission Valley Aquatics is asking if the city would like to partner in the vision of creating an aquatic and community center in the Kerr Dam Fields area near the old Tamsco building,” Tana Seeley, MVA director, said.
The Kerr Dam land is owned by the city, and MVA asked if the city would be interested in dedicating the property to the aquatic center. The Kerr Dam Fields area is “known for recreation”, Seeley said, with its proximity to soccer, baseball and softball fields, the 7th Avenue Skatepark, a playground, the Flathead River and the Travis Dolphin Dog Park. The site is also close to schools and the downtown area.
MVA plans have been to build the aquatic center on 2.5 donated acres in Ridgewater Development on the southern outskirts of Polson.
“The MVA Board feels there are positive features about both locations (Kerr Dam Fields and Ridgewater,) and we are investigating the new alternative site to be sure we make the best decision for the future of the community. We should have some feedback from the city by the end of the week,” Seeley explained.
The MVA has raised $63,000 of its $200,000 goal. If the goal is met by Dec. 31, the MVA Board “will feel confident in setting a June 1, 2011 construction date for the aquatic center,” Seeley added.
To get children involved, each classroom in Cherry Valley and Linderman Schools has a piggy bank wearing swim goggles. MVA is encouraging children to “Pry Open Your Piggy Bank for the Pool,” Seeley said, and to bring change for their classroom piggy banks. Pool proponents are asked to please send some spare change in with an elementary school child.
“We want the children to know about the pool project and to be involved in initiating its construction. In part, we are building it for them,” Seeley added.
The proposed 2011 construction will begin the initial stage of a 25-yard main pool with locker rooms and alobby area. Fundraising will continue as the MVA hopes to add a therapy pool and additional features.
