Swimming pools are some of the most well-used and loved public facilities. They bring people together across age, background, and ability, offering shared spaces that promote health, fun, inclusion, and social connection. Planning a swimming pool project begins by answering the simple question: Why do we build pools? 

This paper serves as a tool for municipal staff and decision-makers to develop strong rationales and clear expectations for pool projects in their communities, delivering aquatic spaces with lasting social value for generations to come.

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(c) Eugeni Pons

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On eight pages, this discussion paper explores a broader spectrum of what pools can offer and makes the case for approaching them not simply as recreational facilities, but as strategic investments in public health, community development, and social infrastructure.

Setting clear goals early in the planning process – and reviewing progress against these goals as the project moves forward – is crucial to realizing this potential. These goals help guide design decisions, ensuring the final facility reflects the community it serves.

The group of editors with Darryl Condon, Warren Green, Gar Holohan, RJ Houston, Jens Oyas Moller, and Frederic Tomarchio, chaired by Stefan Kannewischer, hope this discussion paper helps provide a foundation of knowledge as you embark on your new build or renewal pool project.

Why do we build pools_IAK…

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