Proposal for Aquatic Center swimming along

The dust appears to be settling around long-debated proposals concerning a new aquatic center in Rice Lake. Now, a nonprofit is diving into a project to build two new indoor pools for the Rice Lake schools and community, with plans calling for the existing community swimming pool area to be renovated into a recreation and fitness center.

The Rice Lake Public Swimming Pool, a joint venture between the city and school district, was built in the late 1970s. But the the internal mechanical systems are original to the facility, and the locker rooms haven’t stood the test of time, said Pat Blackaller, Rice Lake Area School District finance director.

When swimmers enter the pool building, they have two choices: Go into the women’s locker room or the men’s. That doesn’t address the wants of a mother bringing in her young boy, or dad coming with a young girl. Which do they choose? It could be uncomfortable for them and the people in the locker room both. Plus the rooms are open spaces and afford no privacy.

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