GRAFTON, N.D. — An aging pool in Grafton may soon be replaced by an ambitious indoor facility, thanks to the findings of a recent feasibility study.
Grafton Parks and Recreation has engaged a consultant, IBIS Enterprises, to develop a comprehensive business plan aimed at establishing an indoor aquatics wellness center. This project is designed to cater to the community’s needs by ensuring sustainability, according to Director Bill Dahl. He stated, ‘We’re not trying to build something we can’t afford or can’t find partners to.’
The city had previously approved a quarter-cent sales tax ordinance in July 2024, intended to raise funds for a new outdoor pool. However, Dahl revealed that the projected $2.5 million generated under the 20-year sunset clause, was not sufficient for the desired amenities, estimating a shortfall of $5 to $6 million. A consultant’s research indicated that stakeholders are more interested in an indoor facility, which would offer year-round access compared to an outdoor pool, which operates for only about nine to ten weeks a year, weather permitting.
In light of these insights, Parks and Recreation has initiated the business planning phase with IBIS, a firm specializing in health care and wellness projects. Grafton’s economic development committee has approved a loan of $25,000 to facilitate this study.
Dahl stressed the urgent need for updates, stating, ‘Our pool is at a point where fixing things is no longer an option.’ With significant infrastructure issues and an estimated loss of approximately 5,000 gallons of water per day, the current pool is facing imminent closure. ‘It’s running on borrowed time,’ he added.
The Grafton pool, built 71 years ago, reflects the broader trend of aging rural public pools across the region. Although the business plan is in its early stages, Dahl aims to present preliminary results by the end of April. The community is eager to see plans for what he terms the Northeast Regional Wellness Center, which he believes reflects the area’s readiness for such a facility.
‘I’m excited about it,’ Dahl remarked. ‘It’s going to take our community and a lot of partners to make this happen.’
For more detailed information about the project, visit Grafton Parks Project.
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