2025 Pool Options Study
Help Shape the Future of the Pool
The Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District is continuing its Pool Options Study to evaluate the future of the aging Hood River Aquatic Center.
As part of this process, the District has hosted two public engagement events:
A Community Open House in July, which welcomed over 100 attendees
A Pool Concept Workshop on September 7th, where participants reviewed and discussed potential design concepts & ranked amenities and priorities.
The architects created three pool concepts based on community input. They are just concepts and a test to see if they will concept amenities will fit on the project site. The concepts are:
Concept 1:
Renovation of the existing pool, including new locker rooms, offices, and a lobby. The pool area would be enclosed by a tent.
Concept 2:
Full replacement of the pool with a new layout and updated features, maintaining the same square footage as Concept 1. The pool area would be enclosed by a building with a roof.
Concept 3:
Full replacement with a slightly larger facility and a different layout, designed to support future growth in community use and programming. This concept layout is all on one floor. The pool area would be enclosed by a building with a roof.
An online survey was held through September 28. The survey is now closed, but you may still click on the links below to see the questions included in the survey and the information provided, which included:
Background on the Pool Options Study
Descriptions of each concept
A side-by-side comparison of features and estimated costs
Survey questions
🔗 English Survey
🔗 Encuesta en Español
We had over 850 responses to the survey. Thanks for giving your feedback! We are working to compile the data. We will be using the feedback we received to further develop one concept design. Stay tuned for more information.
Questions? Please shoot us an EMAIL or stop by the pool.
Do you want to understand the tax implications for each concept? CLICK ON THIS LINK to find a property and see how each replacement concept might impact property taxes.
Overview
Last year’s bond and levy to fund a new facility did not pass. Since then, we’ve spent time actively listening to the community and learning from your feedback. What we heard loud and clear: the community wants transparency and involvement in the decision-making process. Hood River Valley Parks & Recreation has hired the architectural firm, Integrus to lead a comprehensive pool study. The scope of their work includes:
A full assessment of current pool conditions
Potential design and renovation options
A detailed cost analysis to help guide future decisions about Aquatic Center.
This study is designed to involve the community, promote transparency, and ensure that your voice helps shape what comes next.
Why Now?
The pool has served our community for decades — but many systems are outdated, failing, or costly to maintain. Recent issues include:
$50,000 in emergency HVAC repairs last fall, which delayed heating until November
Three of 22 tent panels recently failed beyond repair ($12,000 each)
Facility accessibility issues
Mechanical systems are nearing end-of-life
Leaks caused from old, rusty, & brittle piping
Out-dated locker rooms
Pool Options Workshop #2:
On Sunday, September 7th, we held two Community Workshops on the pool options. The consultants gave a presentation on the steps they have taken to date, which include a Facility Conditions Assessment, a Community Open House, and an online survey. From there, consultants developed three concept designs based on community input. They walked participants through the options, went over cost considerations, answered questions, and participants were able to participate in a ranking activity to help prioritize the types of amenities they would like to see in a future facility.
Next steps: Take the SURVEY and share your input. This will help inform a single concept design and a potential long-term needs for residents.
Open House #1 Recap:
Thank you to everyone who participated!
On July 9, over 100 community members joined us for the first Pool Options Study Open House at the Hood River Aquatic Center. We’re so grateful to everyone who toured the facility, asked questions, and shared ideas about the future of aquatics in Hood River.
Interactive feedback stations
Presentations from architects and pool consultants
Behind-the-scenes facility tours (including the pump room)
Light refreshments
Community history of the Aquatic Center and HRVPRD
