Sandusky Aquatic Center

Sandusky, Ohio

Firm

ThenDesign Architecture

Client

Sandusky City School District

Area

12,706 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$8,000,000

Completion Date

05/2025

ThenDesign Architecture

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Design team
Arie Swirsky, RA, GA (Project Manager and Construction Administrator); Claire Bank, AIA, NCARB, ALEP (Project Architect); Cynthia Haight (Interior Designer)

After nearly a decade of planning, the expanded Sandusky Aquatic Center has reopened as a resource for health, wellness and recreation in Sandusky, Ohio. Given the city’s proximity to Lake Erie, swimming plays a vital role in the community, and the modernized facility supports that longstanding connection.

Designed for all ages, from young swimmers and competitive athletes to active seniors, the center, in partnership with the Erie County Health Department, promotes lifelong fitness and wellness.

Central to the renovation is a six-lane, 75-foot competition pool, featuring advanced filtration, an underwater sound system, and ADA-compliant entry points, including extended stairs and a motorized lift. A family locker room with integrated restrooms and changing areas improves accessibility for individuals and families.

Additional upgrades include a 250-seat spectator bleacher section and a digital scoreboard to support competitive events. Despite challenges such as Covid-19, bedrock conditions and inflation, the project team transformed the aging facility to meet modern standards.

The renovated Sandusky Aquatic Center stands as a hub for health and recreation, and as a symbol of resilience and community investment, ready to serve generations of Sandusky residents.