AQUATIC CENTER construction on schedule!
The South Whidbey Parks & Aquatics Foundation is excited to be at the Bayview Farmers Market once a month throughout the summer.
The market is one of our favorite places to connect with neighbors, friends, and supporters who are helping make this incredible community project possible. It's a great opportunity to learn about the progress of the new aquatic center, ask questions, and hear how our fundraising efforts are helping ensure the facility delivers on its promise from day one.
Every conversation, every donation, and every show of support brings us one step closer to building a healthier, more connected South Whidbey.
6/19/26
As a group of South Whidbey Elementary second graders walked to Community Park for their year-end field trip, the new aquatic center under construction quickly became the star of the show.
"Wow! Look at the pool!"
"I can't wait to swim there!"
"Did you hear that everyone can swim there?!"
Their excitement was contagious—and a powerful reminder of why this project matters.
June 7, 2026
Whidbey Adventure Swim welcomed in its 15th year on Sunday morning June 7th at Seawall Park. In attendance were 100+ swimmers, many spectators, and close to 50 local volunteers onshore and on the water.
Swimmers come from all over the Pacific Northwest, and swim either 1.2 or 2.4 miles. Everyone had a great time in 2026, and are already planning for 2027.
“Thank you for all the work you and your organization put into the WI Swim. As a participant it was a terrific event. Perfect conditions, good vibes, great people and excellent snacks!” —race participant, Spokane, WA
3/26/2026
Pool Update
If you’ve been down Maxwelton Road recently, you’ve seen the progress being made on the new Aquatic Recreation Center. The work is on schedule and going well, with completion slated for Spring 2027.
“Most of the earthwork is just about complete,” reported South Whidbey Parks and Rec Director Brian Tomisser. “The work of digging trenches throughout the Community Park is done, and our staff is working to restore the park’s beauty for a busy spring.”
Keep up on the latest site development and updates at South Whidbey Parks and Recreation’s Pool page.
3/26/2026
South Whidbey High School has its first state
swim champion!
Local swimmer Jack Hempel won two first place titles at the WIAA 1A state meet February 21 at the King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way.
The SWHS senior powered to first place wins in the 100 free in 47:47, and the 50 free in 21:33, both personal bests for the season.
Hempel started out swimming with the Stingrays, South Whidbey’s long-standing youth swim program. He commuted to and trained with Kamiak High School throughout his high school career.
“Jack's the kind of swimmer every coach hopes for,” said Rob Jung, Hempel’s Stingray coach. “He’s relentlessly hardworking, genuinely kind and very talented. This year it paid off with two well earned state championships.”
Way to go, Jack! Keep swimming!
Read more about the state meet and SWHS swimming in The Record.
1/1/2026
The South Whidbey Parks and Aquatics Foundation would like to say THANK YOU to all of you that voted, supported, and believed.
By passing Parks and Recreation’s Maintenance and Operations levy Nov. 4, doors to a brand new, state-of-the-art aquatics facility will open to the public in Spring 2027.
The new South Whidbey Aquatics Recreation Center is under construction, and community members are getting excited! We asked a few locals what they were looking forward to the most about the new pool. Here’s what they told us.
As a swim coach, I see every day how an indoor community pool helps kids grow stronger, more confident, and safer.
—Rob Jung, Stingray Youth Swim Coach
As a water aerobics instructor I hear weekly how the class has improved mobility, balance & strength to participants. I am thrilled that more people will have the opportunity to take advantage of water therapy when our community pool is completed. It's a good thing.
—Janice Martinovic, water aerobics instructor
I am so excited for the new pool. It's going to be big and right by the school so I can go after school with my friends, and on a rainy day.
—Blake, age 8
In my professional experience, access to aquatic therapy and exercise can significantly improve quality of life for individuals recovering from injury, living with chronic pain, or managing conditions such as arthritis or neurological disorders. Our community pool will expand these opportunities.
—Karen Leitz, PT DPT
We have taken the ferry back and forth sometimes 2-3 times a week to watch our daughter swim with Kamiak. She is now a senior and we are thrilled for future SW swimmers and their families to have a pool to practice and compete in. Swimming is something that brings the whole family together and we have enjoyed every minute …..well, maybe not the occasional long ferry line.
—-Leneen Carr, SWHS Swim Team Parent