Here are the most frequently asked questions and answers.
Why build a COMMUNITY POOL?
A pool is a gathering place that brings together people of all ages and abilities around fun and fitness. This will be an inclusive space for parent/child activities, family swim time, town swim teams, vacation camps, Masters swimming, senior exercise classes, activities for residents with special needs, and events. The facility will promote life-long wellness and social connections.
WHO is behind this initiative?
Swim Winchester is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded to build a pool on Town of Winchester land. This all-volunteer group brings together community resources and skills to help the Town plan and carry out this exciting project.
Is this a PUBLIC FACILITY?
Yes! The community pool will be open to all residents of Winchester and surrounding towns. There will be no waitlist or need for a sponsor. The non-profit facility will charge fees that are as affordable as possible in order to fund operations and maintenance.
What ACTIVITIES are planned?
The facility will have something for everyone from infants to seniors. Programming will include a wide range of aquatics activities for all ages as well as non-pool activities such as aerobics and yoga. The pool will be available for use by the Winchester High School swim teams. There will also be a dedicated fitness room with equipment such as treadmills and weight machines.
Will there be SWIM LESSONS?
Absolutely! Swim lessons for children and adults are an important part of the mission of the community pool. The facility will prioritize instruction that is accessible and available to all.
What about an OUTDOOR POOL?
The preliminary design includes a wonderful summer patio space connected to the recreational pool. There are currently no plans for an outdoor pool due to space and financial constraints.
WHERE will the community pool be located?
The Winchester Select Board and School Committee unanimously voted to approve a site in the northeast corner of Skillings Field subject to certain conditions including private fundraising, a flood management plan, an operations plan, and accommodation of neighborhood impacts.
Why SKILLINGS FIELD?
Skillings field is a centrally located athletics destination and easy to access. The site preserves green space since there are existing parking lots for use in peak times.
What about PARKING?
The current site plan has dedicated parking spaces located near the facility between the existing grass and turf fields. Additional parking is available nearby when the high school is not in session. Many residents will be able to walk to the facility from their homes.
What about FIELD SPACE?
The site is located beside the high school grass practice field and behind the multi-purpose turf field. The facility will complement these existing high school fields.
What about the nearby FLOODPLAIN?
The Town of Winchester’s multi-million dollar flood mitigation program is expected to reduce the size of the floodplain on Skillings Field. The facility will be built after the Town applies for flood zone remapping and will meet or exceed all water management requirements.
What about NEIGHBORS near Skillings field?
The goal is to build a facility that is an asset to its neighborhood and the local area. Swim Winchester will continue to update residents and its volunteers are always available to meet to discuss any concerns.
How much will the facility COST TO BUILD?
The estimated construction cost for the preliminary design is $25M in 2023. This amount does not include inflation or contingencies. The cost estimate will be refined as program options and the construction timeline are established.
Where will the FUNDING come from?
Swim Winchester will raise private funds for construction of the facility on Town of Winchester land. Our capital campaign goal target is $30M. We are beginning with a $5M First Wave challenge.
What is the BUSINESS PLAN?
The facility will operate on a non-profit basis. Membership and rental fees will support operating costs, along with a reserve set aside for maintenance costs.
What are the NEXT STEPS?
With the support of hundreds of donors, Swim Winchester has completed initial planning (Phase 1) and preliminary design (Phase 2). We are now starting Phase 3 which will determine the feasibility of a private capital campaign to build the pool.
WHAT IF fundraising falls short?
Building features, size, and materials can be modified based on available funds as long as the design supports a financially viable facility. Additional partners may also join the project.
When will the DOORS OPEN?
Construction can begin once funding is secured and Town approvals and permits are obtained. We are hopeful that this wonderful facility can be built within five years.
How can I HELP?
We are currently accepting non-binding capital campaign pledges to help determine our fundraising ability. We also welcome volunteers with many different skills.
What if I have MORE QUESTIONS?
Click HERE to see our latest donor brochure. We would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us by email at info@swimwinchester.org.
Brad Shaw
Winchester would really benefit from having an aquatic facility.