Any center option better than status quo

Published Tuesday, December 26, 2006

While the idea of building an aquatic center is in its early stages, decisions regarding its location should still be made relatively quickly.

The committee assigned to explore the idea of a waterpark is pondering several options, including creating a natural waterpark at Pebble Beach, building a waterpark at DeLagoon Park, or locating it elsewhere in Fergus Falls.

There are certainly advantages and disadvantages for each option.

The natural park idea would use the existing beach and likely be less costly, but it would be useable for less time during the summer, and likely be less attractive for families and visitors than a man-made center.

A center at DeLagoon Park, located on the city’s southeast side, would take advantage of visitors coming to Fergus Falls by way of the Central Lakes Trail, as well as those staying at a proposed new campground. However, it would not be a convenient location for Fergus Falls residents.

An aquatic center at a park closer to the central city, such as Grotto or Broadway, would be more convenient for local residents, but would not be for visitors.

However, any of the three aquatic center options would be far better than the status quo. The committee should make a decision based on financial feasibility and long-term sustainability.

Most importantly, they should make the deicision soon, and move on to finding ways to get the project completed.