A task force has begun discussions on developing a new year-round aquatic and wellness center for the greater Hermiston area.
Health, Aquatics & Wellness Center (HAWC) Task Force members began their work by reviewing an assessment of the existing Hermiston Family Aquatic Center, conducting a site prioritization exercise, and defining goals to ensure any future project encourages community access and engagement.
An indoor aquatic center has been a top priority for Hermiston-area residents for years and was included in the Hermiston 2040 Community Vision and Action Plan. The HAWC Task Force was formed to explore the feasibility of creating and operating a health, aquatic, and wellness center in Hermiston. The task force includes representatives from regional city and county governments, schools, health care, and utility organizations in western Umatilla County working together to promote health and fitness.
The aquatics planning and design firm Counsilman-Hunsaker provided a comprehensive assessment of the current Hermiston Family Aquatic Center, noting it is more than halfway through its expected 30-year lifespan. Structural wear, aging mechanical systems, and minor issues like tile popping and potential water loss from cracks will require continued maintenance as the facility ages. The facility remains a valuable community asset, but the report showed that future renovations will be necessary to keep it functional and useful.
ALSC Architects led an exercise where task force members created a decision-making matrix to evaluate potential locations for a new indoor center. Considerations include accessibility, regional impact, and pedestrian and bicycle access. Members discussed the value of locating the facility near regional trails and highlighted the potential impact to traffic on Highway 395.
Discussions also covered potential for future expansion, utility incentives, and the need for a clear assessment of neighborhood impacts. The task force requested that city leaders and planners identify and grade locations for further review.
The task force set a goal of meeting local needs and attracting regional visitors from at least an hour’s drive away, with a focus on enhancing community pride and providing an inviting environment.
The HAWC Task Force is committed to transparency and public input as it reviews and advances plans for the facility. Future community feedback opportunities will be scheduled to ensure that the new center reflects the needs and priorities of Hermiston and surrounding areas.
