Dear Friends and Neighbors,
It’s official — the new NCRD Aquatic Center is open!
After years of planning, fundraising, construction challenges, and extraordinary community support, we are thrilled to announce that our brand-new pool facility is complete and ready to serve the North County community for generations to come.
This moment is far more than a ribbon cutting — it’s the realization of a vision that began nearly a century ago, when the original 1930 pool was built to teach local children how to swim after a tragic loss inspired a community to take action. Today, with the opening of our new pool, that same spirit of caring, collaboration, and determination continues.
From Vision to Reality
In 2021, the community overwhelmingly supported the NCRD Pool Bond Measure, authorizing $8.2 million in funding to replace the aging 90-year-old facility. That vote set this historic project in motion — and you made it happen.
Since then, the District has worked tirelessly with architects, engineers, contractors, and donors to bring the dream to life. What began as a $10 million plan evolved through an era of inflation, supply-chain challenges, and rising construction costs. Thanks to additional fundraising, private donations, foundation support, and a bridge loan, we were able to secure the remaining funds needed to see the project through to completion.
Today, our state-of-the-art aquatic center features a modern lap pool, a warm-water therapy pool, efficient mechanical and HVAC systems, and enhanced accessibility features — all designed with the health, safety, and enjoyment of our community in mind.
A True Community Effort
This project is, at its heart, a story about you — the people of North County. From the bond voters and donors who contributed financially, to the volunteers, local partners, and staff who gave their time and energy, every piece of this facility reflects the generosity and dedication of this community.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to:
• The voters of North County, whose approval of the bond made this dream possible.
• The Friends of NCRD Foundation, whose tireless fundraising efforts bridged crucial funding gaps.
• Our anonymous and named donors, including organizations like the Mudd Nick Foundation, Autzen Foundation, JTMF Foundation, Tillamook County and Adventist Health Tillamook, for their extraordinary generosity.
• Our design and construction partners, including the Klosh Group, Par-Tech Construction, and the many contractors and tradespeople who worked on every beam, tile, and pipe.
• Our dedicated NCRD staff, who managed operations, transitions, and preparations with professionalism, creativity, and heart.
• And finally, to our community members — for your patience, support, and unwavering belief that this day would come.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
While the old pool served us faithfully for generations, it was time to pass the torch. The new aquatic center carries forward the same mission that started it all — to teach water safety, promote wellness, and bring people together through recreation and community.
From swim lessons for Nehalem Elementary students to senior fitness classes, from therapy and rehabilitation programs to family swim nights, the new facility will ensure that everyone in our region has access to safe, year-round aquatic experiences. The new pool also reflects NCRD’s commitment to sustainability and stewardship. Modern mechanical systems reduce energy and water use, while improved accessibility ensures everyone can enjoy the benefits of aquatic recreation.
Join Us in Celebration
We invite everyone to join us for our Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, November 15 at 2:00 p.m. The event will include music, refreshments, tours, games, and open swimming — a true community party to celebrate what we’ve achieved together. We hope you’ll come see this incredible facility, take a swim, and share in the pride of knowing that this was made possible by you.
Thank You, North County
This project began with a simple goal: to ensure that future generations would have a safe, vibrant place to swim, learn, and grow. It has become a testament to what can happen when a small community dreams big and refuses to give up.
From everyone at the North County Recreation District, thank you — for believing, for giving, and for helping us make history.
With gratitude,
Justin Smith
Executive Director, North County Recreation District
