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FAC Renovation Project Information
This webpage will serve as the central hub for all updates on the renovation project. Check back regularly for:
- Information on the project
- Progress photos
- Updates on construction milestones
By investing in these renovations, the City of Sun Prairie aims to enhance the aquatic center’s appeal, improve cost efficiency, and ensure that it remains a valuable community asset for decades to come.
Questions about the project? Please contact Chad Shelton, Recreation Director, via e-mail or phone at (608) 837-3449.
Project Background
The Sun Prairie Family Aquatic Center (FAC), originally built in 1992, is in need of significant renovations to better serve the community. The existing facility is aging, lacks modern amenities, and is in need of accessibility and inclusion updates. The renovation project seeks to address:
- Updated bathhouse: A complete remodel to meet state code and ADA compliance, increase efficiency, expand restroom and shower facilities, ad improve the flow for patrons.
- Modern Amenities:
- A new aquatic play structure for toddlers and young children.
- A family-friendly slide.
- Older child and teen-focused equipment such as an aqua climbing wall and zipline.
- Artificial turf sunning areas, complete with game area featuring ping pong and cornhole.
- An updated concession stand.
- Enhanced Shade & Seating: Additional shade structures and seating areas to improve comfort and reduce crowding.
- Energy Efficiency:
- Solar Trees: Designed to offset the energy use of three pool pumps and sell back energy to the grid during the off-season.
- Efficient Fixtures: Energy-efficient lighting, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and updated mechanicals.
- Chemical Savings: Reducing the zero-depth entry area to minimize chemical loss due to evaporation.
- Reduced Operating Costs: Reduced operating costs with energy efficient investments and a new pool layout that allows for reduced staffing without compromising patron safety.
Project Scope & Budget
The City of Sun Prairie has allocated a budget of $7.1 million for the renovation project, which will include a full retrofit and remodel of the bathhouse, modifications and enhancements to the pool vessel, addition of solar trees to offset energy costs, remodel of the concessions stand, and repaving of the parking lot.
The renovation is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to improving community services while managing costs efficiently. This project emphasizes long-term cost savings and enhanced value for residents.
Community-Driven Design
The renovation has been shaped by extensive community input gathered through public feedback sessions and surveys. Residents expressed a desire for:
- Enhanced family-friendly amenities.
- Improved accessibility.
- Cost-effective upgrades to reduce long-term operational expenses.
The final design incorporates these priorities, ensuring the facility remains a destination for families while addressing practical concerns like staffing and maintenance costs.
Long-Term Cost Savings
The renovation is expected to reduce annual operating costs by 20% to 30%. Key cost-saving strategies include:
- Staffing Efficiency: By reshaping the pool, the facility will require fewer lifeguards, reducing staffing costs without compromising safety.
- Energy and Utility Savings: Sustainable systems and solar power aim to lower utility bills by 10-15%.
- Increased Revenue: Expanded programming and new amenities are projected to boost revenue by at least 10% in the first year after reopening.
Project Timeline | Project Milestones |