Chippewa Valley High School, Pool Addition

Clinton Township, Michigan

Firm

French Associates

Client

Chippewa Valley Schools

Area

361,380 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$6,602,799

Completion Date

10/2003

Recently, the Chippewa Valley High School community passed a bond issue, enabling the district to continue its plans for much-needed districtwide additions and renovations. Part of the district’s strategic plan was to create equality among the high school facilities.
Previously shared sports facilities no longer were able to meet the needs of the growing populations at each of the high schools. Chippewa Valley High was hosting sporting events at its stadium, but for swimming programs, it needed to travel to Dakota High School within the district. With the bond passage came the funding to build a natatorium at Chippewa Valley High School.
The new addition is easily accessible for school and after-hours events by way of a separate physical-education entrance. The same red banding used to accent the high school’s exterior has been continued across the natatorium, making the addition seamless.
To further support the aquatic educational programs, a classroom, multipurpose athletic room and pool shop were included in the addition. The swimming pool was designed to meet competition standards and is handicapped-accessible. The district plans to open the pools to more community-based programs so that there is less idle time. In addition, any fees charged for usage will help to offset the operating costs of the facility.