2 GISD breaks ground on
natatorium, wrapping up bond
A highly anticipated facility is on the horizon for
Garland ISD. The district is pleased to announce that its
state-of-the-art natatorium is officially under construction.
A cornerstone of the 2014 Bond Program, breaking
ground on the aquatic center marks the final phase of the
taxpayer-approved plan.
“We are really excited about our natatorium and are
thankful we are able to make it a reality, thanks to our
community,” said Executive Director of Facilities and
Maintenance Joel Falcon. “This is truly going to be a
world-class place.”
Construction on the project, bid at $30 million, began
in February at the intersection of Pleasant Valley Road
and Firewheel Parkway. The crew is currently working
underground, laying the foundation for a phenomenal
final product.
“The natatorium will have 1,200 spectator seats and a
Myrtha pool shell, which is the same pool construction
used at all U.S., international and Olympic championship
meets. It will also have a state-of-the-art air filtration
system,” stated Director of Facilities Javier Fernandez.
The 54,000-square-foot building will also boast an
extended and separately heated warm-up/teaching pool
with a wheelchair lift, wide pool decks, large weight and
locker rooms, enhanced storage capabilities, a ticket
window and concession stand, and a diving area with one
and three-meter boards.
In addition to its superior physical perks, GISD’s
natatorium will also provide new learning and
extracurricular opportunities. Students at all district high
schools will be able to participate in varsity and junior
varsity swimming and diving. The district also plans to
teach second-graders and special needs students water
safety.
“The aquatic safety program will teach life-saving
lessons to GISD students and reduce the chances of
childhood drownings,” Fernandez said. “Besides the high
school and safety programs, the natatorium will also be
available to host district and regional swim meets.”
“Some of the local natatoriums don’t have diving
platforms like we will,” Falcon added. “That feature will
help bring some collegiate meets to Garland ISD.”
Other potential future offerings include everything
from masters swimming to club water polo to lifeguard
certification.
Garland ISD’s long-awaited natatorium is slated to open
in 2020. To celebrate this community-backed milestone, a
groundbreaking ceremony will occur this summer.
Watch history in the making and keep up with the
natatorium’s construction at garlandisdbond.com.
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