CALLAWAY, NE – A project many years in the making came to fruition on Saturday morning when the community of Callaway came together to celebrate the opening of their new swimming pool facility.
A bond passed two years ago sparked what was referred to several times as a “journey” to the just over $4 million dollar summer destination opening.
Features of the facility include zero depth entry, a sitting bench inside the pool, spray features, a slide, a 3 1/2 foot depth area for water aerobics and similar activities, a climbing wall, diving board, lots of shade, and plenty of deck space.
Vice Chairman Lawrence Paulsen addressed the crowd gathered at the new entrance.
“Just a short while ago we embarked on a journey. A journey that required dedication, perseverance, and a little bit of sacrifice. But through it all, we stood tall, unwavering fueled by the belief that every child, every family, and every individual in this community deserves access to safe and enriching recreational opportunities,” said Paulsen.
Paulsen continued by saying that the community worked hard knowing that what they were pursuing was not just a place to swim, but also a hub of community life where memories would be forged and memories made.
“With unwavering determination we banded together and took action. We rallied our neighbors, we engaged in open dialogue, and most importantly we exercised our democratic right to vote. Through our collective efforts we passed a bond that made this facility a possibility, a resounding testament to the power of democracy and action,” Paulsen said to an agreeing audience.
Tyler Doane with JEO Consulting said the pool is about 4,000 square feet and holds 140,000 gallons with a recirculation rate of about 700 gallons per minute. “So if you’re doing the math it’s going to turn that water over about every four hours, should keep it nice and clean and crystal clear,” Doane calculated.
Paulsen thanked the village board for having the foresight to set aside funds for the better part of a decade, the city staff, and the pool committee before making an announcement that brought excited cheers.
“The village has decided that not only is there no admission fees to swim today, but for the 2024 season residents within the city limits of Callaway will not have to pay any fees, season passes or daily.”
