In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant renovations planned for Regner Park's swim pond, a community staple since its opening in 1935. The proposed upgrades aim to transform the swim pond into an aqua park, enhancing recreational opportunities while addressing declining attendance and financial losses.

The swim pond, which has seen attendance drop from a peak of over 70,000 swimmers in 1973 to just 12,000 in 2004, has undergone minimal changes over the years. Recent additions, such as a splash pad and inflatable attractions, have proven popular, but the facility still faced substantial operational losses—$88,000 in 2023 alone. To combat this, the city has increased lifeguard wages and sought external funding, including support from Washington County's Save Summer Swim Program.

The proposed aqua park will cover approximately 60% of the pond's surface, allowing for a capacity increase from 30 to 140 swimmers at a time. Features will include various slides, diving platforms, and an obstacle course, all designed to attract families and enhance the overall experience. The plan also includes safety measures, such as personal flotation device requirements and lifeguard stations.

Financially, the project is estimated to cost around $344,500, with funding sourced from donations, existing accounts, and potential park acquisition fees. Officials expressed optimism that the aqua park could generate significant revenue, projecting a potential profit of $65,000 if swim pass sales meet expectations.

The council unanimously supported moving forward with the bidding process for the renovations, highlighting the community's enthusiasm for revitalizing the swim pond. The upgrades are seen as essential not only for improving local recreation but also for ensuring the sustainability of the park's operations without relying on taxpayer funding.