Simplified: The design for the new indoor pool and recreation center at Frank Olson Park is nearing completion, which means this is likely the last chance for the community to give feedback before the city moves forward with the $47 million project. Here's what you need to know.

Why it matters

  • The new facility marks the culmination of years of work to replace the aging pool at Frank Olson Park, and earlier this year, the Sioux Falls City Council approved a bond to fund construction of the new $47 million facility. That same bond also included funding for a new, $18 million outdoor pool at Kuehn Park.
  • Before the city can move forward in selling those bonds, the council has to give approval to the schematic design, which received unanimous approval from the parks board earlier this week.
  • The schematic design shows the most detailed look so far at the various facility features, including big windows, open spaces, indoor playgrounds, pools and more.
"It’s just schematic at this point," Parks Development Manager Mike Patten said. "Our goal is to have it set up so it can be as flexible to whichever direction we want to go to."

Tell me more

The parks board got to see two video tours – one of the exterior and one of the interior. You can see both of those here:

Specific features at this point include:

  • a 40-foot-tall play structure,
  • an indoor walking/running trail,
  • basketball courts with lines to also play volleyball and pickleball,
  • a smaller playground for toddlers,
  • a leisure pool with spray features, a lazy river and a water slide,
  • a six-lane, 25-meter lap pool,
  • meeting rooms for events, programs and parties,
  • a fitness area with cardio and strength training options.

What happens next?

The schematic design now moves to the City Council, where it's expected to be considered next week.

  • If approved, the city will be able to bond for the funds to construct the facility and move forward with the final design.

That also means if you as a community member want to share your input, now's a good time to reach out to your city councilors. Find their contact info here.