After a long time coming it’s finally here, Jackson County celebrated the completion of its new aquatics facility on Saturday with a host of grand-opening festivities.
“To finally have it come about has been a really big deal for Jackson County,” said Parks and Recreation Director Michael Hopkins. “We’re really excited for the opportunity we have.”
The opening celebration marked a major milestone for Jackson County. For more than 20 years, residents have been asking for a county pool — indoor or outdoor.
In 2019 Jackson County conducted a survey to gauge interest in a potential aquatics facility. After receiving positive feedback, the county enlisted architectural firm Clark Nexsen to draft plans for the project.
Drafts were completed and a budget was set. The following year, Jackson County voters approved a $20 million general bond referendum, and construction plans were drawn. New Atlantic Construction broke ground in September 2022 with the goal of completing the facility by the following October. October came and went, as did several subsequent completion dates. The facility is now complete and open to the public.
The 30,000-square-foot complex features a six-lane competition pool with diving boards and a rock wall, as well as a leisure pool with a play area and amenities for children. Additional upgrades include revisions to the lobby area and parking lots, new men’s and women’s locker rooms, saunas and more.
The facility resembles Western Carolina University’s Health and Human Sciences Building and Allen Residence Hall, which were also designed by Clark Nexsen.
“People have said, ‘This looks like a five-star hotel — where do we check in,’” Hopkins said.
Sylva resident David Miner was selected to lead operations at the new facility. Before moving to the area, Miner spent time coaching and directing swim competitions in Florida.
“When I first saw the job was available it was so enticing. There’s so much opportunity for the community here,” Miner said.
Unlike the outdoor pools in Sylva and Cashiers, the Cullowhee facility stays open regardless of weather, offering uninterrupted pool access. Miner and Hopkins said this is a significant benefit for Jackson County residents.
“The overall health benefits of a pool are across the board,” Hopkins said.
Year-round access allows for a broader range of programming than is possible at Sylva or Cashiers pools. Miner and the staff are working to make the most of the facility.
They are forming youth swim and dive teams: Pinnacle Aquatics Swimming and Pinnacle Aquatics Diving. For adults, Miner will lead a branch of U.S. Masters Swimming. He also said Smoky Mountain High School plans to relocate its team to the new facility.
Miner hopes to offer lifeguard training, learn-to-swim programs, water aerobics, Zumba, kayak rolling, scuba training and more.
Year-round operation also increases staffing needs, particularly for lifeguards. Initial staff shortages in December delayed the opening celebration and limited hours during the holidays.
“We need four to five lifeguards for every hour that these pools are open,” Miner said. “Having that many guards at any one time is challenging in this area.”
More than 30 guards have been hired, but additional staff are still needed. To apply, visit jacksonnc.org.