Numerous public and private partners contribute toward $5.4 million upgrade
 On October 21, 2015, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) of Commissioners approved the schematic design of renovations planned for the Phillips Community Center Aquatics Facility.
The state of Minnesota, Hennepin County Youth Sports Program, MPRB, Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) and local non-profit Minneapolis Swims all contributed funding to reimagine and rebuild this crucial community asset.
“It was inspiring to see so many people step up and share their ideas, opinions and passion supporting the pool”'s revival,” said MPRB Superintendent Jayne Miller.
“The Phillips pool will be the only public indoor pool in Minneapolis offering year-round swimming instruction when it reopens,” added MPRB District 3 Commissioner Scott Vreeland. “Everyone should learn to swim, and this will be a great place for children, families and elders to play, exercise and learn about water activities.
The existing six-lane indoor pool, which opened in 1973 and closed in 2008, will be renovated and the second-floor spectator seating refurbished. New elements slated for the aquatics facility include a four-lane teaching pool, two locker/changing rooms, lobby, reception, staff office, lifeguard room, public restrooms and realigned entryway.
An extensive community engagement process guided the development of both the concept design (approved in April) and schematic design. In the event supplementary funding becomes available, a non-appointed Community Advisory Committee prioritized nine additional desired improvements at Phillips Community Center.
The project is on schedule to publicly bid for construction February 2016. Construction is anticipated to start May 2016 and take one year to finish.
MPRB is working with the community and MPS to define how the pool is programmed and operated when it reopens.
Capital Funding SourcesÂ
2012 State Bonding: $1,750,000
Minneapolis Public Schools: $1,750,000
MPRB: $706,000
Hennepin County Youth Sports Program: $325,000
Minneapolis Swims: $935,000Â
Minneapolis Swims donors include numerous local businesses, institutions and community organizations.
—
