Great Bend Post
The Great Bend City Council had a big vote two weeks ago to get the ball rolling on the SRCA dragstrip rebuild west of Great Bend. Monday night, the body will make another big decision regarding the swimming pool.
The city currently contracts with JEO for on-call engineering services. One of JEO's areas of expertise is aquatic facility design. Last October, Amber Wyatt with JEO visiting the Wetlands Waterpark to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the Great Bend pool. Wyatt provided a 66-page report to the city about the condition of the 1936 pool and its features. Monday night, the council will consider approving a $30,000 fee to complete a concept development and facility assessment.
The process will include identifying deficiencies, establishing key project criteria, and developing conceptual designs and cost estimates for repair and renovation. Previously, the city aimed to keep the pool operational through the 2025 and 2026 swim seasons with demolition slated for August 2026. Under the Quality of Life Sales Tax, the city has earmarked approximately $6 million for renovations on the 12,000 square foot space.
The council will also provide updates on a grant for downtown Great Bend and also funding for work on the airport lift station. Monday's city council meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at city hall.