Waterslide, splash pad and mini-golf course could be coming to Kaukauna's aquatic center

Sophia Voight, Appleton Post-Crescent
Updated ·2 min read
Rendering of the splash pad to be built at Kaukauna's aquatic center.
Rendering of the splash pad to be built at Kaukauna's aquatic center.

KAUKAUNA - The city of Kaukauna's municipal pool is getting a major makeover this year that could bring a new waterslide, splash pad and mini-golf course to the downtown park.

The pool brings in around 35,000 guests each summer, but the 30-year-old facility is in need of repairs and safety upgrades to accommodate to users. In addition to repairs, the city will add recreational amenities to turn the pool into an expansion aquatic center.

With aging amenities and facilities in need of repair, the city is looking to renovate almost every aspect of its pool.

Here's what to know about the project:

What upgrades is the pool getting?

Improvements include a larger locker room with additional restrooms, changing rooms and showers, an upgraded concession stand and added pavilions.

To transform the pool into an aquatic center, Kaukauna is planning on adding a 175-foot tube waterslide, splash pad, aquatic climbing wall and an 18-hole mini-golf course.

In addition to renovating the pool, the city is planning on installing six pickleball courts in the coming years on the empty green space at the top of the hill near the pool.

Site plan for Kaukauna's aquatic center that plans to open summer 2024.
Site plan for Kaukauna's aquatic center that plans to open summer 2024.

How much will it cost?

The estimated project cost is $6 million.

How will it be paid for?

Funding for the pool will come from a variety of sources. The city is currently running a capital campaign with the goal of raising $1 million for the upgrade.

Remaining funding will come from $3 million worth of city loans, $500,000 of the city's parks capital funds and $1.5 million from a downtown tax increment financing district.

When will the upgraded pool be open?

Construction is expected to begin after the 2023 season with the improved aquatic center opening to the public in time for the summer 2024 season.

Sophia Voight is a local government and political reporter with The Post-Crescent. She can be reached at svoight@postcrescent.com. Follow her on Twitter @sophia_voight.

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This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Kaukauna to add waterslide and mini-golf course to aquatic center