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Maximizing Your Aquatic Facility
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Maximizing Your Investment - Creating aquatic programming for everybody

Designing programming for an aquatic facility is an exciting venture that can significantly impact a community's recreational landscape. Prioritizing flexible spaces that can accommodate diverse activities is crucial in maximizing revenue.

Creating Financially Viable Aquatic Programming

Programming is the heart of any successful aquatic facility, providing a steady stream of revenue and engagement. Developing diverse programs tailored to various age groups and interests is essential. This includes offering swim lessons, water aerobics, competitive swim teams, and special events like pool parties or aquatic fitness challenges.

Spectrum Aquatics is proud to sponsor Total Aquatic Programming, a consultant for financially successful aquatic facilities who believes that aquatic programming should be approached with the 3 D’s: Design, Develop, and Deliver.   

Total Aquatic Programming (TAP) organizes an annual conference known as Build & Program A Pool, which spans two days, bringing aquatic professionals and industry experts together to deliberate on all facets of constructing and managing an Aquatic Center. Participants can anticipate gaining insights into market analysis and identification of unmet needs, understanding pricing, and membership options to enhance program accessibility while optimizing revenue, and the expansion of outreach and consistent engagement through collaborations with local organizations or schools. 

Engaging the Community: Building a Hub of Activity

Aquatic facilities have the potential to be more than just places for swimming; they can become vibrant community hubs. Building strong community engagement starts with understanding the needs and interests of the people you serve. Hosting community events, such as open days or themed swim nights, can introduce new users to the facility and foster a sense of belonging.

Adding recreation equipment to your pool boosts revenue by exciting pool-goers. Pool climbing walls are a cost-effective choice, especially for smaller budgets. Spectrum Aquatics offers KERSPLASH® Climbing Walls, that are easy to assemble and popular with facilities like Chimney Park Pool, which saw a 30% revenue increase in revenue after installing KERSPLASH® Challenger at their outdoor pool. Poolside Basketball Hoops are another affordable option. For larger budgets, waterslides are highly sought after. Spectrum Aquatics provides two options: the thrilling SlidesWorx Series and the budget-friendly Pool Side Slides.

Additionally, offering rentable spaces for competitive swimming and incorporating essential equipment for both swimming and water polo can attract community participation and generate additional revenue. Investing in Swimming Starting Blocks and Water Polo Equipment is highly recommended to enhance your pool's offerings.

Involving the community in decision-making processes, like soliciting feedback on new programs or facility improvements, can enhance their investment in the facility's success. Establishing partnerships with local businesses and organizations can also create synergies that benefit both the facility and the community. By positioning your aquatic center as a welcoming space for everyone, you cultivate an environment of inclusivity and connection.

Sustainable Practices for Long-term Success

Sustainability is not just a trend; it's a crucial element for the long-term success of any aquatic facility. Implementing eco-friendly practices can significantly reduce operating costs like thermal pool covers that, when used regularly and properly, provide immediate savings of 50-70%. 

"Since the installation, the staff has been tracking the monthly utility usage. The pool cover and other energy ideas saved Webster City $33,243.87 in just one full year!" - Kent Harfst, Webster City, Assistant City Manager

Creating an Inclusive Environment for All

Inclusivity is a fundamental pillar of community engagement, playing a vital role in enriching the recreational experiences offered by aquatic facilities. It is essential to design pools that are not only accessible to everyone but also welcoming, ensuring that individuals of all abilities can participate fully. This inclusive approach transcends regulatory requirements, standing as a moral obligation to embrace diversity and equality. By integrating custom aquatic solutions, such as ADA-compliant pool lifts, transfer rails, and access ramps, facilities can provide safe and comfortable access, empowering individuals with disabilities to enjoy the myriad benefits of aquatic recreation. This commitment to inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and ensures that no one is left on the sidelines, transforming aquatic centers into spaces where everyone can thrive and connect.

The potential of aquatic facilities extends beyond providing a place to swim; they can serve as vital community centers that offer diverse recreational opportunities. By focusing on inclusive and flexible programming, enhancing community partnerships, and committing to sustainable practices, facilities can not only maximize their financial returns but also enrich the lives of individuals across all demographics. Empowering communities to engage with aquatic environments leads to stronger connections, healthier lifestyles, and a shared sense of purpose. In doing so, aquatic facilities can achieve long-term success, creating lasting value for both the community and the facility itself.

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