The Only Water Feature in Town

Like so many communities, Sapulpa, Oklahoma, had made one investment in an aquatic facility decades ago, and it was for an indoor swimming pool. And, as is the case in many other communities, that pool’s effectiveness had decreased dramatically as the years passed. It couldn’t be repaired, so it was razed for a new basketball field. Poolless again, city managers had to fi gure out a way to address the community’s aquatic needs.

Sapulpa didn’t want to hold a bond issue for another pool, so city managers began talking to various local organizations. It turned out that the Rotary Club wanted to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its international organization and was willing to front much of the cost. Following what is a national trend, the city and the Rotary Club began looking into a splash play area as a pool alternative: a simple, poolless aquatics area built with spray features and other water toys. These play-oriented installations fill the bill for what people want…recreation.

The Rotary Club began fundraising, which included securing a matching grant. It took about two years to raise the $144,000 needed. The project went quickly, and the project offi cially opened late last August. This summer it has been a huge success. The only water project in the entire city, it enjoys crowds every day, including people from surrounding towns.

This is just one of the many great Rotary Centennial projects that have impacted our communities. Congratulations to Sapulpa Rotary for their outstanding achievement. In the months to come, we will feature other outstanding park projects undertaken by our District 6110 Clubs for the benefi t of their communities. It’s a gift that keeps on giving!