Pool fun: Photo by Michele Grint
Let’s Make a Splash is a campaign to replace the existing 1978 Ord municipal swimming pool with a new outdoor aquatic center. The goal of the Splash Committee is to construct a new outdoor swimming pool with zero depth entry, four (4) 25-yard lap lanes, water spray/play features, a large slide, 1 and 3-meter diving boards, concessions and a new bath house. The anticipated impact of the project is meant to address community needs identified through the collaborative efforts of a broad cross section of volunteers from local schools, the Ministerial Association, Friends of the Library, Ord Senior Center, Mid-Nebraska Individual Services, and parents of the community’s children.
The Splash Committee initially secured $1M dollars in local funds from city sales tax excess funds ($375,000) and a challenge grant from Greater Loup Valleys Activities, Inc. (up to $625,000). Since the original announcement, additional funds of $65,000 have been raised through local granting organizations and fundraisers.
New Ord Pool
The estimated cost of the new pool is $2.5M. The dilapidated condition of the existing city pool is the reason why this has become the community’s top priority. An updated Aquatic Center will address ADA compliance issues, provide more opportunity for a healthy alternative for Ord’s handicapped population, replace what is currently a health concern in the mechanical operations of the pool, and finally will ensure the efficient use of water and prevent the contamination of ground water with pool chemicals.
Additional fundraisers are planned throughout the summer to meet the financial obligation to build a new pool, along with a grant writing campaign to cover the gap. Fundraisers planned for this summer include:
- Let’s Make a Splash Golf Tournament and Live Auction on July 19. The format will be a 4-man scramble with a Calcutta. Registration includes green fees, breakfast and lunch with a meal and live auction following the tournament. Gold and Platinum sponsorships are available. For more information, download a registration form or contact Matt Geiser at 308.384.3302.
- Buy-a-Brick Wall of Fame: Help “Pave the Way” by purchasing a brick to prominently display your name, the names of loved ones, or your company logo. You can download a brochure or pick one up at the Chamber/Economic Development office at 1514 K Street.
- Don’t Be a Drip, Buy a Drop allows you to conveniently support the pool project. Area businesses are selling “drops” at checkout registers. Your drop will be displayed at the business. If your business is interested in selling drops, please contact Heather Fox at 308.728.7215.
- General Donations are always welcome. Because funds will flow through GLVA, a 501(c)(3), all donations are tax deductible. Want to dedicate a specific component of the facility, such as a shade area or ladder? We’re happy to oblige! Contact Trevor Lee at 308.728.7875 for more information.
This webpage is intended to share information about the swimming pool campaign and updates regarding funds secured to construct the new facility.
Inquiries or volunteer interest can be directed to Trevor Lee (308.728.7875) or Caleb Pollard (308.730.2376).