Board Approves $60 Million Plan to Build New Aquatic Centers in Dallas

The Dallas Park and Recreation Department board has approved a $60 million plan to build new aquatic centers across the city.

The unanimous vote left residents still asking questions about the plan.

"A great pool doesn't have to be an expensive pool," Chris Gay said.

Gay was among several Dallas residents who attended Thursday morning's board meeting.

Initial designs for the aquatic centers feature large slides, toddler slides and lazy rivers. Cost of admission would range from $7 to $9.

The board said $30 million dollars from the recent sale of a park, future revenue from the aquatic centers and potential bonds will pay for the plan.

The board also said it is cutting costs by building the new aquatic centers where older pools are currently located.

However, some residents are still questioning the plan to pay and the initial designs.

"Our goal here is to build great facilities that can be used for competitive swimming and horse play for kids while still balancing costs," Gay said.

The plan calls for building a total of six aquatic centers and three spray grounds. The next step is finalizing the designs.