By Dorothy Borchardt
Circle of Friends

The following is from the feasibility study the Circle of Friends is currently undertaking.

“Studies consistently show that swimming ranks as one of the most popular activities across the U.S., with U.S. census data placing it as the fourth most popular sport or activity. Often called ‘the perfect exercise’ because of its lack of harmful side effects that can be caused by impact exercises, swimming is also widely recognized for its health benefits. This makes aquatic facilities an important part of a community’s offerings to its citizens. Yet the Madison area has remained critically lacking in aquatic facilities. While Madison has staked its claim on a number of world-recognized sporting events, such as the Ironman Triathlon and Cross-Fit Games, athletes have few training options for the swimming component of these or other events.

“Swimming facilities also remain out of reach for many in our community. Most existing aquatic facilities require expensive memberships. The few public aquatic facilities that do exist are largely outdoors, limiting their availability to a small portion of the year.

“A large-scale, multi-purpose community aquatic facility would fill this gap. After much research and with the help of professional consultants, we have developed a conceptual design for the Warner Park Aquatic Health and Wellness Center as an addition to our current community center. This 87,200 square foot addition will be built into the hillside, drawing on the natural slope of the land which will minimize both construction costs and the visual impact of the building. The two-floor layout will provide space for swimming on the first level and spectators on the upper level. 

“The City of Madison is willing to provide the land for the project if we can raise the funds for the construction, presenting us with a great opportunity if we act now.”