July 20, 2010 – I had a chance this past week to spend the afternoon with my family at the new aquatic center, Cascade Falls. Wow, what a facility. I took in all the tube slides, diving boards, and lazy river as well as the “toilet bowl” ride. Each were a great experience. As my wife and I sat back and watched the buzz of activity, we discussed how much it felt like a resort facility, and couldn’t believe it was right here in Ankeny. A proud moment indeed.
A couple people have asked me about seating, which is limited, and parking. On the seating, I must say that I was surprised there was not more chairs provided. Since the grass area was not open yet, we sat on the concrete, which was less than comfortable. Very soon, the grassy areas will be open and people will have more seating choices but I think there simply needs to be more chairs.
On parking, the plan is to share a parking space with the planned elementary school adjacent to the aquatic center. Once built, the pool can use the schools parking lot in the Summer when school is our and the rest of the year, the school can use the pool parking lot when it is closed. This is a great partnership with the school district and saves us money. So, in the meantime, on overly crowded days customers may have to walk a block or so to get to the pool. Personally, I think this is a small price to pay compared to million dollars to double the size of the parking lot for a pool open three months a year.
Nonetheless, we have a great facility in Ankeny and I hope you all get there soon.
