After nearly three decades of hosting swim teams, diving clubs, state events and national tournaments, the Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) Aquatic Center will permanently close its doors following Labor Day weekend.
“I assure you this decision was made following a careful review and with the full understanding of the significant contribution the center has made to the college and Oklahoma City since it was built in 1989,” said OCCC President Dr. Paul Sechrist. “However, the present day functional, operational, financial, and mission realities have resulted in the decision to close the Aquatic Center.”
A consulting firm determined that the 25-year-old aquatic center would require $6 million in repairs and upgrades. This investment would still leave the facility behind many other newer and more advanced national and international facilities.
Additionally, the Aquatic Center operates each year with a significant revenue loss. With the looming potential state funding cuts and costly repairs on the horizon, the decision was made by college administration to close.
The future usage of the space remains undetermined. The college is evaluating options in regards to the strategic plan and needs of the students and community.
The Aquatic Center was built in 1989 and served as the outdoor venue for all aquatic competitions during the 1989 U.S. Olympic Festival. In 1991, the college enclosed the facility.
The facility features a 50-meter long competitive pool. A separate diving well is equipped with 2 one-meter springboards, 2 three-meter springboards and platforms at five, seven and 10 meters.
