May 22, 202

The City of Dubuque Parks and Recreation Department has launched a citywide Aquatics Feasibility Study to help guide the future of Dubuque’s pools, splashpads, aquatic centers, and water-based programming. Residents are encouraged to participate and make their voices heard as the City works to build safe, accessible, and inclusive aquatic facilities for generations to come. 

Aquatics and pool facilities were identified as a high-priority capital need in the City’s systemwide Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan adopted earlier this year. The feasibility study will inform decisions on how the City invests in aquatic infrastructure that serves residents of all ages, abilities, and neighborhoods across Dubuque. 

Community input is essential to the success of this study. Dubuque residents and stakeholders will have multiple opportunities including a focus group meeting on Wednesday, May 27, from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the Jule Operations and Training Center, 949 Kerper Blvd. This opportunity is designed for water walkers, lap swimmers, and swimming lesson families. Additional public engagement opportunities will be available throughout the summer.  

Beginning June 1, residents and stakeholders will be able to access an online survey, comment on an interactive map, share ideas, and subscribe to the project email list on the feasibility study website. The URL and additional details will be shared later. Those interested are encouraged to follow the City of Dubuque Parks and Recreation Department on Facebook for updates. 

The Aquatics Feasibility Study will proceed through several phases, including a needs assessment, evaluation of existing facilities, site evaluation, concept development, and the creation of an implementation plan. Key goals of the study include: 

• Define Community Aquatics Needs and Priorities: Identify current and future aquatic facility and programming needs through outreach efforts, ensuring the study reflects the community’s desires and aspirations. 
• Evaluate Existing Facility Performance: Assess the functionality, condition, and effectiveness of current aquatics facilities to determine their capacity to meet community needs and identify potential areas for upgrade or repurposing. 
• Identify Future Development Opportunities: Pinpoint suitable locations for new aquatics facilities by evaluating site options and balancing environmental, social, and infrastructure considerations. 
• Develop Innovative Aquatics Concepts: Create visionary, adaptable facility concepts that promote accessibility, sustainability, and multipurpose functionality for all user groups. 
• Optimize Operations and Maintenance: Recommend operational, staffing, and maintenance approaches that ensure long-term efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and a high-quality user experience. 
• Promote Financial and Environmental Sustainability: Balance fiscal responsibility with environmental stewardship, creating facilities that are sustainable and resilient for years to come. 

For more information or questions about the Dubuque Aquatics Feasibility Study, contact the City of Dubuque Parks and Recreation Department at 563-589-4263.