The Si View Metropolitan Park District said it will continue to pursue a new public aquatic center near Si View Park at its meeting on Aug. 18. Further community input on the project was accepted until Sept. 1.

The district, which services over 27 square miles of land, including North Bend and some unincorporated areas, said its residents have been wanting a new aquatic center for over a decade, based upon a yearly survey of residents.

The district’s current pool, located at the Si View Community Center in North Bend, is over 80 years old, has failing mechanical equipment and does not have space available to meet the needs of an increased population, the district said.

To meet the demands of the area, the district is proposing a new aquatic center located off SE Orchard Way, adjacent to Si View Park.

The idea for a new aquatic center has been pursued since a 2019 feasibility study was conducted, showing interest in the project. To fund the project, a capital bond was needed, however, a 2020 proposed bond did not receive the 60% majority needed from voters.

For the current project, the district is hoping to rely on a new 2020-2025 parks levy from the county government. The levy includes a grant program for aquatic centers, which could partially cover design and construction costs — but a bond would still be needed.

District officials are unsure what the project would cost at this point. The 2020 project bond was estimated at $23.7 million. District officials said the cost of a new pool would save the community money compared to the costs of annual routine maintenance on the current pool.

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