Waitsburg pool moves forward

WAITSBURG - After surveying Waitsburg residents in 2022 and 2023, the Waitsburg Parks and Recreation District identified a city pool as a top priority. The district was joined by Rural Youth Enrichment Services, Waitsburg Commercial Club, City of Waitsburg, and the Walla Walla YMCA to develop the five-year plan to relocate the city pool.

After the district and city agreed to locate the new pool on city property on the north side of the Touchet River, the district selected WMS Aquatics to construct the facility. The Ellensburg company recently provided the district with drawings of the proposed facility, including an approximately 4,190 sq. ft. lap pool, pool house, mechanical room, fencing, and landscaping.

Parks and Recreation estimates that the construction for only the pool will cost between $2.1 million and $2.6 million. The full cost of the project, including the buildings, decks, lighting, and landscaping, could increase to $3 million.

Under RYSE, The Friends of the Waitsburg Pool has raised over $90,000 in donations. The parks and recreation district has applied for grants and will continue to identify potential public funding opportunities for the construction of the facility.

On the November 2025 ballot, the Waitsburg Parks and Recreation District will ask voters to approve a levy for 60 cents per $1,000 in assessed property to fund the district. The levy would generate annual revenue of $130,000, ensuring the pool's sustainability by funding the pool's maintenance and operation.

The Waitsburg Friends of the Pool and RYSE are hosting RYES Rhythm and Fun Festival on Saturday, August 23, at 4 p.m. Enjoy games, food, and music at the Waitsburg Fairgrounds.

For more information or to donate to the pool, go to http://www.ruralyes.org/pool.