Wellmark YMCA - Prairie Meadows Pool

Des Moines, IA
Construction Cost: $8.9 million
Area / Square Feet: 39,400
Occupancy Date: March 2018

MEETING NEEDS
The Prairie Meadows Pool was built to meet the aquatic needs of the area's YMCA members, particularly competitive swimmers, water polo teams and triathlon training. The natatorium is designed to accommodate spectators for aquatic competitions. To accomplish this, the facility includes an eight-lane, 50-meter competitive pool complete with a movable bulkhead and a separate four-lane, 25-yard warm-up pool. Other amenities include stadium bleachers, starting platforms, a water volleyball net and a water basketball goal.

STRATEGIC BUILD
It was very strategic to build a high-level competition aquatic facility in the heart of downtown of a major metropolitan community. This natatorium was constructed as an addition onto an existing convention center that had recently been converted to a large YMCA, with a pool deep enough for competition water polo and synchronized swimming. Existing skywalks connect the natatorium to multiple hotels, parking garages and restaurants.