The Latest

10/1/2026                               

Q&A on the New South Whidbey Aquatics & Recreation Center

Excitement is building as our community gets closer to the opening of the South Whidbey Aquatics & Recreation Center. Designed to be a vibrant gathering space for neighbors of all ages, this new facility is steadily taking shape.

To keep everyone informed, South Whidbey Parks and Recreation has provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the building progress, features, and future operations.

Q: Is the project currently on schedule and on budget?
A: Yes. As of mid-2026, construction is roughly halfway through its 18-month timeline. The project remains both on schedule and on budget, with nearly $2 million kept in contingency for unexpected costs. Any leftover contingency funds at the end of construction will go straight toward reducing the project's debt.

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Q: When is the facility expected to open?

A: The center is currently on track to open in 2027. 

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Q: What will the center's operating hours be?
A: The plan is to be open 7 days a week. The facility will start with a soft opening, featuring limited hours, to iron out initial operational details.

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Q: How much will it cost to use the center?
A: Exact 2027 pricing tiers and options will be finalized by the Board of Commissioners in early 2027. Staff are actively working to build options that accommodate different community needs.

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Q: Will there be senior or resident discounts?
A: It is highly likely that specialized discounts will be available for local residents and seniors. The South Whidbey Parks and Aquatics Foundation is raising funds to provide financial assistance so that cost is never a barrier for neighbors who want to enjoy the water. Visit the Access for All page for information on how to donate to this program.

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Q: What are the details on the new third-grade swim program?
A: Starting in Fall 2027, the Foundation will provide a voucher program for a series of free swim lessons to all third graders living in Clinton, Freeland, or Langley. The Parks District is also collaborating with the South Whidbey School District to potentially integrate a third-grade swim program directly into the official school-day curriculum. Visit the Access for All page  to help fund this program.

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Q: Will there be programs beneficial for seniors?

A: Yes, open swims, lap swims, water aerobics, and water walking are just a few of the activities available for seniors.

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Q: Will there be swim teams?

A: Yes, the current plan is for the center to host local swim teams. Formal discussions between the Parks District and the South Whidbey School District regarding high school teams are scheduled to begin later this year.

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Q: Does the pool design include a lazy river?
A: Yes, the layout features a current channel classified as a lazy river. It will function as a fun play space for children, and it doubles as an excellent space for water-walking fitness activities.

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Q: What kind of fitness classes will be hosted at the facility?
A: The facility features multi-purpose rooms and a small fitness space to host land-based classes alongside pool workouts. The Parks District is looking to collaborate with local instructors to offer a diverse schedule.

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Q: Can the pool be rented for private events like birthday parties?
A: Yes. The building features two dedicated party rooms available for rent. Guidelines regarding full-pool rentals are still under evaluation by the Board.

7/18/2026                                

Another great day at the Bayview Farmers Market!

It's such great fun to connect with our community, and the excitement about the pool is palpable.  The most common question by far is, "So when is the pool going to open?" To which we are happy to respond, it's more than halfway through construction and remains on schedule and within budget, estimated to open May 2027.

Check out the newest drone footage of the construction from 7/15/2026.

7/2/2026                                

 We're at the Bayview Farmers Market This Summer!

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. 

6/7/2026

WHIDBEY ADVENTURE SWIM 

15th ANNIVERSARY

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.

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