Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, May 9, 1993 TAG: 9305100327
SECTION: DISCOVER PAGE: 10 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: JOANNE ANDERSON STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: BLACKSBURG LENGTH: Medium
The new pool facility on Patrick Henry Drive opened in September 1992, 15 years after inception.
From sketch to reality in a decade and a half, the center boasts an Olympic-size swimming pool, a connecting splash pool, a hot tub, two saunas and locker-room facilities in a 14,000-square-foot glass-and-brick building.
Sliding glass doors on one poolvside open to a grass area where pool guests may sunbathe and relax.
The pool water is a constant 82 degrees, not exactly bathtub temperature, but not cold enough to freeze your toes, either. You may dive or jump in, lower yourself on a ladder, or for those who enjoy the torture of slow submersion, walk in through the splash pool, a gradually sloping section that connects to the main pool.
The hot tub can accommodate nine people, and the water is mainvtained at 102 degrees. The dry sauvnas may be steamed by tossing water on hot coals.
The public facility offers programs, classes and activities for just about everyone from water babies (6-18 months) and water bugs (18-36 months) to tadpoles, puddle jumpers, starfish, hokiefish, flying fish, adults and seniors.
There are times for exercisers to walk in the water, water aerobics, stroke improvement, exercises, diving or lifeguard and water safety instructor courses. And, there are plenty of times for just plain swimming. These are called "rec swim" on the biweekly schedules available at the front desk.
The pool is open seven days a week. An admission fee gets you a towel and locker and costs $1.50 for seniors (65 and over) and youth (ages 3-14), and $2 for others ages 15-64. Thirty-swim passes are $37 for seniors and youth and $52 for others. Annual memberships also are available.
The aquatic center came to fruition in part by donations from local entities, specifically the Corning Foundation, which gave $50,000 to match $50,000 raised with financial gifts from Federal-Mogul Corp., Litton Systems Polyscientific Division, the National Bank of Blacksburg, United Cities Gas Company and Virginia Tech.
And, the water facility is just the first stage of a three-phase project. The second stage is the addition of aerobics and weight rooms, and the third stage is construction of racquetball courts.
So whatever the weather, if you're in the mood for a vigorous swim, a cool water workout or some hot tub therapy, call the aquatic center at 961-1852.
by CNB