Addison wants money to build aquatic center

Addison Park District officials say a new pool will attract new visitors and residents to the village -- and keep current families around.

That's one reason the park district is asking voters for permission to borrow $14 million in bonds to build a new aquatic center and two multipurpose fields at Centennial Park near Route 53 and Lake Street.

This would cost $43.16 more the first year for the owner of a $200,000 house.

"(A pool) is part of the fabric of the community," said Mark McKinnon, park district executive director. "It's an attraction for people to move into town and to stay in town. I think the box pools that we have now just don't draw people. People want more."

Due to the village of Addison's Town Center plan, which aims to create an area that will feature new shops, residences and businesses, the current pool will be closed and become a park. McKinnon said this is likely to happen within about five years.

"We're trying to have a seamless transition to our new pool when we have to leave our old pool for the new Town Center," he said.

Waterslides, which needed repairs, were removed from the pool in Community Park. The park district added a new splash pad last summer, however, and officials say that will remain in the new park created by the Town Center plan.

Plans for the proposed aquatic center include an eight-lane lap pool with a spectator viewing area. That pool will connect with a zero-depth leisure pool and a vortex pool. The center also will offer a lazy river, waterslides and concessions.

"It's just a real important issue because, ultimately, it comes down to do we have a pool in town or do we not," McKinnon said.

Addison Park District

What: The park district is asking residents to allow it to borrow $14 million to construct a new aquatic center and athletic fields at Centennial Park.

Cost: $43.16 more per year for the owner of a $200,000 house.

If it passes: The district will construct and equip an outdoor aquatic center and multipurpose athletic fields at Centennial Park, pegged to open summer 2010.

If it fails: The district will continue operating the Family Aquatic Center at Community Park.

Details: (630) 833-0100, ext. 561, or www.addisonparkdistrict.org