CANON CITY — A new aquatics and recreation center could be coming to Cañon City.
It's a project that News 5 found out has been in the works for several years.
Some city leaders shared that it's surprising that for a community of its size that there isn't this kind of facility already. The city does have a community pool, but it's pretty old and in need of major repairs that might not be worth the cost.
R.C. Icabone Swimming Pool is a place that's been a summertime hangout in Cañon City for more than 50 years.
Resident Mandy Kuiken said, "I remember coming here as a child and now just bringing my kids here."
However, after decades of fun in the sun it might be time for a change.
Economic Development Director Ryan Stevens said, "They're trying to keep it alive every year so right now it's on a year-to-year basis...right now they're looking at replacing a boiler. There's a lot of mechanical issues."
He said It's tens of thousands of dollars in repairs.
William Ward also uses the pool and said, "They need to upgrade it and get something new."
That something new might be just be an aquatics and recreation center.
Stevens said, "We've run numbers anywhere from $25 million to $40 million. It just kind of depends on what you put in it, what the community needs and wants."
He said the project would most likely be paid for with a combination of sales tax and a mill levy.
Kuiken said, "I would love it since I've got two younger kids here. I think it would be really beneficial and just give something else for the kids to do around here."
Beyond that it could potentially boost Cañon City's economy.
Stevens said, "When you're trying to recruit businesses and businesses are trying to recruit employees having a community asset like a recreation/aquatics center is certainly a benefit."
If you'd like to ask questions or share your thoughts on this project a public meeting is happening Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the Cañon City High School auditorium.
