Holland, MI—Holland Community Aquatic Center (HCAC) hosted a private ground breaking event in conjunction with construction partners Lakewood Construction and AMDG/OLC Thursday evening.
The event was held outdoors and included a short ground breaking ceremony, presentation of project renderings and plans, and opening of the time capsule from the 1998 expansion.
The original HCAC facility was built in 1968 and underwent an expansion in 1998 to accommodate increased demand. The latest renovation and expansion will provide additional space for the community, competitive, and educational swimming programs. HCAC serves as the home pool for Holland Public Schools and Holland Christian Schools as well as provides swimming instruction to students in the entire Holland Public School district.
“We are excited to share how we have partnered with our construction and design teams to create a world class facility that will allow us to better serve all HCAC visitors,” said Jack Huisingh, HCAC Executive Director. “We’re not only meeting each of our promises to provide better access to all visitors but doing so within budget, on-time and on-schedule.”
The renovation and expansion will add an additional lap and diving pool, private change rooms, expanded lobby and warm-water lap pool and spa. In addition, the design includes improved drop-off lanes, more on-site parking, and a new layout to allow free movement between all pool spaces.
After safety delays to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Holland Community Aquatic Center began construction for the $26.3 million expansion and renovation project approved by voters last spring. Lakewood Construction, AMDG/OLC and trade partners restarted with outdoor site work in early May, when the State of Michigan lifted limitations on construction.
“We are extremely excited to partner with AMDG/OLC and the Holland Community Aquatic Center team on this important project”, said Chad Nienhuis, Lakewood Construction’s Director of Pre-construction, “The renovation and expansion of Holland Community Aquatic Center will be an important asset to the Holland community.”
About the Everyday Construction and Renovation Project
The aquatic center sought community support last May through a bond proposal to fund the project, which will ensure everyday access to the pool for all ages and families as the demand for simultaneous uses increases. The project includes adding warm-water leisure access and a lap pool, updating wellness spaces, adding a new diving and lap pool to its 50-meter competitive pool area and increasing spectator seating. It also improves mechanical air quality and water components in alignment with sustainability goals.
Renovation and construction will likely wrap by 2022.
About Holland Community Aquatic CenterHolland Community Aquatic Center (HCAC) is dedicated to inspiring the health and vitality of our community for Every Age, Every Family, Every Day. Since 1968, Holland, along with lakeshore communities and the State of Michigan have relied on HCAC for access to high-quality natatorium facilities. For more information about HCAC visit https://hollandaquaticcenter.org.