Discussion held on expanding water park

by Larry Patrick
WALSENBURG- The Parks and Recreation Committee for the City of Walsenburg are discussing the possibility of adding an “endless pool” to Walsenburg Wild Waters in the next year or two. The “endless pool” is a concept that allows one or more persons to swim against a current for swimming exercise without having a full size pool. Two Peaks Fitness had one in La Veta when they were open.
One of the biggest complaints about the water park has been there is no room for swimming laps. The “endless pool” concept can be built in-ground or above ground and can be as small as 10 or 12 feet. The endless current allows swimmers to feel as though they are swimming laps when in reality they are swimming in place but getting much of the same benefit. Assistant administrator Beth Neece described it as being a big bathtub with a motor to provide endless current to swim against.
The cost for such an addition can run from $25,000 to over $100,000 dollars. The city was going to check with Greater Outdoors Colorado to see if matching funding is available to purchase the equipment. Discussion was also held on what has happened to the one that was at Two Peaks Fitness and if it is available and in good condition. City officials are to check on that possibility.
In other news notes, people in over 40 communities have visited the Walsenburg Wild Waters so far this season. People are asked where they are from for statistical purposes. In the first 12 days of operation this season, 500 people from Walsenburg had used WWW while 651 people from out of town have used the facility. 62 of that number have been from states other than New Mexico.
The first ever wedding was held at the water park recently. The bride and groom said their vows at the top of the water slide and then went down the slide, wedding gown and all, making a big splash at the bottom amid cheers.
The Parks & Rec Committee has a request to bring alcohol into the water park for private parties. Pioneer has requested renting the facility for the day but wants to be able to have kegs of beer for the private event. The City can issue a permit and were going to see how the county handles such events at the Huerfano County Community Center.