Organized around a central spine with a public entry at each end (and a third entry that provides secure and controlled access to a childcare center), the Blue Water YMCA offers dramatic views both inside and out.
Amenities include a six-lane lap pool; a leisure pool with water slides, therapy components and water-play features; a two-court gym; a weight and fitness area overlooking the natatorium; group exercise and meeting rooms; a concessions area; the childcare suite; an outdoor playground; and locker rooms that accommodate two membership tiers plus patrons with special needs. Access to covered parking also is available.
Because the site is adjacent to a river, soil conditions were poor and required the use of deep foundations. Constructed on 90-foot concrete piles supporting a concrete floor slab as well as individual pool tubs, these foundations added cost to the project but were deemed worth the price in order to capture the inherent excitement of the busy St. Clair River area. Visitors are treated to close-up views of passing ocean freighters from all over the world.
The use of large glass panels, brick piers and stone accents recall the city’s past industrial-loft imagery.
Grapeland Heights Park
