Letter to the Editor: Help Us Complete the Carbondale Aquatics Center
This summer, the new Carbondale Aquatics Center will continue to take shape at the site of the old pool, with reopening scheduled for spring 2026. Going without a public pool for two summers is tough, but it also helps us realize how important a Town pool is for our community. The new facility will feature a brand-new ADA-accessible bathhouse, a six-lane lap pool with a diving board and climbing wall, a large shallow-entry recreation pool for kids, and an in-ground hot tub/spa.
Despite a nearly 50% increase in construction costs, the Town has secured funding for these core elements thanks to healthy fund balances and increased sales tax revenue. Additionally, individuals, families, civic organizations, businesses, and grants have contributed over $1.6 million in gifts and pledges, bringing us within $870,000 of our goal.
Community support is needed for the final phase of funding, which will allow us to include key enhancements that align with Carbondale’s core values of sustainability, inclusion, and the arts, without impacting other budgets. These features include:
- A Trellis and Solar Array – Providing shade while advancing our commitment to renewable energy.
- Brick Artwork & Architectural Enhancements – Celebrating Carbondale’s creative spirit and enhancing Main Street’s character.
- High-Efficiency Heat Pumps – Ensuring energy-efficient electric heating for the pools and the building, advancing our climate goals.
- Spa Accessibility Features – Making the center more inclusive for all ages and abilities.
Rather than scaling back to a basic design, we are striving for a facility that reflects the values and requests of our community. Carbondale has a long history of achieving big things through philanthropic support. Investments from individuals, businesses, and organizations allow us to “punch above our weight” and build something exceptional—something we can all take pride in.
To help lead the way, I have personally donated six months of my mayor’s salary to this effort. I invite you to join me in making this vision a reality. Every contribution, large or small, brings us closer to the finish line.
If you’d like to donate or learn more, please visit https://carbondaleconnect.org/pool. Together, we can create an aquatics center that serves our town for generations to come.
Ben Bohmfalk
Mayor, Town of Carbondale