Lower Takes Steps to Investigate Feasibility of Aquatic Center

LOWER TOWNSHIP – Lower Township took a step forward in researching the possibility of building an aquatic center when Township Council members agreed to authorize a feasibility study for the project at the council meeting on Feb. 6.
“It’s something that will serve all ages, abilities and disabilities,” Mayor Erik Simonsen told those in attendance at the meeting.
He noted that even though Lower Township is the most populated municipality, the township has depended on others when it comes to a pool with comprehensive facilities. Simonsen stressed the importance of creating an aquatic center where the Lower Cape May Regional High School swim team could practice and host swim meets, children could receive swim lessons and learn about water safety, those in need of aquatic therapy could use the therapy pool and the facilities would be open throughout the year.
Township Manager Jim Ridgway said that the top location that the township is looking for the project would be the Cape May County Airport complex. The airport complex has the necessary space available and has been the focus of recent economic development.
Purchasing Agent Margaret Vitelli said the request for proposals from professional consulting firms for the feasibility study was submitted on Feb. 16 and will need to be returned to the township by March 15.
According to the request for proposal, the vision for the aquatic center would include a 25-meter swimming pool that would be based on New Jersey Interscholastic Athletic Association standards to accommodate swim teams and swim meets. The pool must provide an area for exercise classes, warm up lanes, lap swimming, swimming lessons and other recreational activities. The township would like to explore a therapy and physical therapy pool that would be available for professional or private sessions to assist residents with any American with Disability Act issues.
The aquatic center vision also includes locker rooms for the general public and swim teams and the option for a separate family locker room, ADA requirements and shower area. In addition to administrative office space, a separate meeting room for social events or business meetings should be considered as well.
Vitelli noted that the main goal of the study is not just the construction of the aquatic center but the cost needed to maintain and operate the facility. The study would also include exploring partnerships with both private and public entities to offset the cost of operating the facility.