Marion Making Plans for New Aquatic Center to Replace Old Pool
A 2016 survey of Marion residents asked what project they would most like to see completed in the future. The overwhelming #1 answer was a new aquatic center to replace the aging facility. Now, plans for a new multi-million dollar aquatic center are coming together with a key public vote coming soon.
The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that Marion City Council members recently approved plans to purchase 24 acres of property for the proposed new aquatic center. The land purchase is contingent upon the city obtaining funding through a bond referendum set for November of 2025. The Gazette reports that council members approved a memorandum of understanding with Atlas LP Company, LLC and Atlas Building Company LC to purchase land just north of Highway 100 near the intersection of 31st Street and Munier Road.
The Gazette reports that the agreement is non-binding and a formal purchase agreement would still be required to finalize any land sale. The proposed aquatic center would cost up to $26 million and feature a lazy river, water slides, a wave pool, a diving well, and a 25-yard lap pool with a ninja warrior obstacle course, according to the Gazette. A tentative grand opening is set for May of 2027.
The Gazette reports that city officials are still studying how the project would affect the city's debt load and property tax rate. The next steps will include a capital campaign to raise money, agree on a final project and design, and gather input for the redesign of Wildwood Pool in Marion once the new center is open.
The current Marion Swimming Pool has been open since 1987.
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