Ponderay Aquatic Center proposal to be launched at June 18 event

By Reader Staff

A rendering of the proposed Ponderay Aquatic Center. Courtesy image

Area residents will have the opportunity to get a first look at the ambitious project to bring an aquatics center to Ponderay, with a free and open community launch event Wednesday, June 18 at the Wellness Center (30544 Hwy. 200, in Ponderay).

Hosted by board members of the nonprofit Ponderay Aquatics Center Endowment, the gathering is set to take place 5:30-7 p.m., and will feature several different stations, where attendees can see plans and ask questions.

As envisioned, the center would include a competition-sized indoor pool adequate for swim and dive meets, water polo, synchronized swimming, deep-water rescue training, SCUBA training, lifeguard certification, and kayak and boat safety events.

In addition, the facility would feature a leisure pool geared toward providing a space for swim lessons and water aerobics, as well as a hot tub, scoreboard and seating for up to 600 spectators for competitions, and a subterranean viewing area.

Along with accessible pool lifts, restrooms, locker rooms and showers, the center is also proposed to include meeting rooms, a field house for indoor sports and events, a community kitchen, workout and fitness area, indoor walking track and an NHL-sized indoor ice rink.

With an agreement with the city of Ponderay, PACE plans to locate the project within the Field of Dreams, adjacent to The Pond presented by STCU public ice rink, which opened in December 2024 and was spearheaded by nonprofit North Idaho Ice and the city of Ponderay.

Though the plans are robust — and will likely require tens of millions of dollars, or more, to bring to fruition — the 501(c)(3) PACE anticipates a 10-year timeline.

Meanwhile, “This project represents a bold step forward for our region — not just as a hub for recreation and wellness, but as a resilient space where our community can come together and thrive,” stated PACE Board Member Michael DiBenedetto.

For more info, visit ponderayaquatics.org.