How is an inviting and entertaining aquatic facility created? What must be achieved? Whitaker Engineering uses its experience to accomplish three critical goals for each aquatic facility:
- Create a destination for users and not just a pool or a fountain,
- Avoid building “problems” into the facility, and
- Make sure that the public has the kind of input which makes it “their” project.
First, the team will work with stakeholders to develop a dynamic aquatic facility. In the past, communities have constructed “stark” public facilities, resulting in limited use by residents. Our approach with our clients is to create customers and not assume customers exist. Water features including slides and hoops can add interest. A variety of water features including lighting associated with a unique theme creates a destination.
Second, the facility cannot become an undue burden, financially or operationally, to the client. Often aquatic facilities are not designed with a full understanding of equipment, hydraulics, chemistry, or operations. The staff is forced to make the best of a challenging situation.
Third, Whitaker Engineering uses public involvement in project development to address several key responsibilities including the following:
- Explaining what type of facilities and features will best serve their needs,
- Responding to any public concerns about the process or the final recommendations, and
- Communicating key concepts to those who did not participate directly in the project.
Whitaker Engineering will guide the client through a successful public process in creating a destination. Whitaker Engineering explains the technical aspects of project in non-technical term and creates sketches and diagrams to present the project before it becomes reality.