From staff reports LAWTON – A groundbreaking ceremony for the new Aquatic Center in Elmer Thomas Park is scheduled for 1:30 p.m., Sept. 17, near the splash pad.
The celebration marks the start of construction on a $19 million, 42,200-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility that will offer a wide range of amenities. Key features of the new aquatic center include a recreational pool, diving boards, slides, swim lanes and a lazy river.
The design, developed by Guernsey, also includes a 6,400-square-foot building with restrooms, concessions, an office, and equipment spaces. The concession and restroom features are designed to function year-round and can be sectioned off for off-season use to ensure flexibility and convenience to park visitors.
The lone bidder for the project was Miller-Tippens Construction of Oklahoma City. The goal of city officials is to have the project completed in time for the 2025 Freedom Festival, Councilman George Gill said.
The aquatic center is “something we need for Lawton to grow and be progressive,” Gill said during an interview with the city’s Communications and Marketing Department.
The aquatic center is strategically placed in the heart of Elmer Thomas Park and utilizes the existing flat terrain to reduce construction costs while simplifying construction. The new facility will also make use of nearby utilities and an expanded parking area that serves the park’s splash pad and playgrounds.
The aquatic center not only will promote healthy outdoor activities, but also boost local tourism and economic growth, as the new center is expected to attract families from across the region.
The public is invited to join the City of Lawton in marking the occasion. Light refreshments will be provided.