WEST FARGO - Administrators for the city, park district and school district want approval to study construction of a community and aquatic center in West Fargo.
For several years, West Fargo residents have desired a city aquatic facility that would meet the demands of heightened residential growth south of Interstate 94.
Such a recreational facility would also take pressure off the aging Veterans Memorial Pool, which park district leaders have said is on its last leg.
Under the proposal from city, school and park staff, the feasibility study would pinpoint specifically what type of facility West Fargo ought to pursue, where it should be located and how it would be funded.
If approved, results of the study would likely come back in September.
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West Fargo commissioners will discuss Monday whether to approve the $60,000 feasibility study, which is a collaborative effort among the city, parks and schools.
The study already has approval from West Fargo Park Board members, who met last week. The school board will also vote on the issue June 25.
Officials have identified one possible location for a community and aquatic center. The park district owns a 10-acre parcel of land off 26th Avenue East that could be used.
Initial construction costs for the facility are estimated at between $16 million and $22.4 million, depending on the features of the center.
For instance, the most expensive option might include a 62.4-meter competitive swimming pool and diving well, an indoor recreational swimming pool, an outdoor recreational water feature and a gymnasium.
In comparison, the $16 million option would include only a 25-meter competitive pool with a diving well and indoor recreational swimming.
The feasibility study should also gauge how the city, parks and schools would fund the project, but some options are already being discussed.
One alternative that's on the table is asking West Fargo voters to approve a half-cent sales tax to fund the public project.
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Officials said they could also use a combination of a privately-backed fundraising campaign and capital contributions from the schools and parks.
The study's scope includes projecting annual operation and maintenance costs for the preferred option. Officials expect the costs could be covered through leases, rental fees and other charges for private use of the facility.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Kristen Daum at (701) 241-5541
