The city of Durham, North Carolina, will spend $43 million to build an aquatic center. The project is in the design phase, with construction expected to begin in fall 2026.
The aquatic center will be located at Merrick-Moore Park, next to the park’s former roller rink. The park will feature multiple pools and aquatic recreational features.
Plans include installing a zero-depth entry pool, a lazy river and additional dedicated pool space for recreational swimming for all ages and abilities. The city will install an aquatic playground along with waterslides, a vortex seating area and a retractable obstacle course. Additional features include a pool house, toddler pool, shade structures and a water volleyball court.
The site’s design includes a deep pool area that may include slides, a rock wall, a diving board and more as the city refines the project. The park will also feature an event pavilion, event lawn, playground, sprayground and table sports, alongside restrooms, concessions and a seating terrace.
The city will develop regular and overflow parking, a drop-off area and a public transit stop. Pedestrians will benefit from an enhanced crossing, public sidewalks and improved access to a connecting street. In addition, the project will feature a maintenance building, stormwater treatment in the parking lot, a skating rink and a pool deck.
(Photo courtesy of Jaee Kim on Unsplash.)
