After 10 months of renovations, North Lake Natatorium is officially open to the public. The Irving Independent School District (ISD), City of Irving and North Lake College held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 6 to welcome the refurbished aquatic facility back into the community. Irving ISD took the lead on the $7 million project, while the City of Irving assisted with design and logistical input.
Renovations included a new roof; the addition of climate control and equipment to provide and maintain comfortable temperatures; changing rooms; Irving ISD student lockers; office spaces; and electrical and lighting updates. While many upgrades have been made to the facility, the concentrated focus was placed on the installation of a permanent roof structure. The new roof is exceptionally durable and will aid in the longevity of the community facility.
Necessary Improvements
In 1984, the former North Lake Aquatic Center opened its doors with a removable roof and seasonal pool concept. The initial intention was to keep the pool uncovered beginning in April and place an air roof over the facility in October. In an effort to manage cost and extend the life of the roof, the city decided the removable-roof would become a permanent, attached fixture in 2008.
While the pool remained covered, the City of Irving Parks and Recreation Department saw a need for a more reliable, permanent structure.
In February, renovations began on the aquatic facility. Crews demolished the former teaching pool and added men’s and women’s changing and shower rooms in its place. A new fire alarm and sprinkler system was installed; the aquatic facility floors were repainted; and two offices, an updated reception/entrance area and additional storage for staff were constructed. A new dehumidification and HVAC system also was added to help with the facility’s climate control.
Opaque white windows bookend each side of the pool, while clear glass windows provide swimmers and patrons a view of North Lake’s scenic fountains, parks and sports fields. The new white windows and roof add dimension, eye-catching design and an airy, modern vibrancy to the building.
Rewarding Partnership, Impactful Programming
While the aquatic center has evolved during the past 33 years, the city’s partnership with Irving ISD and North Lake College has remained a steady pillar of community engagement. Irving ISD understands the importance of local recreation amenities. Nimitz, MacArthur and Irving high schools’ swim teams practice at North Lake. Jack E. Singley Academy holds four sessions of physical education at North Lake, and 20 elementary schools in the district practice water safety education at the facility.
With low-entry and membership fees, easy accessibility and quality exercise equipment, North Lake Natatorium will remain an Irving staple for the next generation of recreational swimmers.
Know Before You Go
The North Lake Natatorium is open as follows:
- Monday through Friday – 5:30 to 6:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Tuesday, Thursday, Friday – 5:30 to 6:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Saturday – 1 to 5 p.m.
- Sunday – Closed
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