A Community Pool in Chequamegon Bay
Planning an outside pool that expands swim lessons, water safety, and affordable recreation for Ashland and the surrounding area.
*Rendering is a compilation of community pools by ChatGPT.
Phase 1: Understanding the Scope
We’re currently raising funds to hire a company to conduct a professional scope and feasibility assessment. This planning phase helps our community evaluate options and make responsible decisions before fundraising for construction.
*Figures below are from our fall 2023 community survey. We’re updating them now. Take our new survey!
COST
$25,000
Youth & Safety Priority
Nearly 90% identified youth swim lessons as a top priority.
Strong Community Demand
A children’s play area was the most desired amenity
Access & Distance
68% cited distance as the primary barrier to swim access.
Designed for Our Community
Pools in similar communities across the Midwest.
Your Pool Questions
The Ashland Pool is the dream of a local nonprofit group not affiliated with any government entity or the City of Ashland.
The project is currently raising funds for Phase 1 through community support, grants, and grassroots fundraising efforts.
One of the key goals of Phase 1 is to explore funding options that avoid burdening local taxpayers. No taxpayer funding is being asked for at this time.
Our goal is to build a long-term, self-sustaining funding model that ensures the aquatic facility would be viable for many years in the future
An outdoor pool is significantly more affordable to build and operate than an indoor facility.
At this stage, the project is focused on exploring a model that is financially realistic for our community while still delivering meaningful recreational, health, and economic benefits.
A site has not yet been determined. Several potential locations will be evaluated during Phase 1 based on accessibility, cost, infrastructure, and community benefit, before any decisions are made.
We welcome your input on the location. If you have a plot of land in mind greater than 3 acres in or near the city limits of Ashland that may be a viable option that you wish to donate, please contact us.
No. The splash pad is a separate project led by the Ashland Rotary Club. This effort is focused specifically on exploring a community pool facility, and the two projects are independent.
This is a core focus of Phase 1. We are working with professional aquatic planners to estimate annual operating, staffing, and maintenance costs, and to identify sustainable funding strategies. The goal is to ensure the facility is financially responsible and viable long-term before moving forward.
There is no set timeline yet. Phase 1 will help determine the overall project scope, cost, and feasibility, which will inform future phases and timelines. We are committed to moving thoughtfully to ensure long-term success.
If the project moves forward, pricing structures will be designed to balance affordability for residents with sustainable operations. Community input will help guide these decisions.
Lake Superior is a beautiful and important part of our community—but it doesn’t meet all needs.
Water temperatures, safety conditions, frequent bacterial outbreaks, accessibility, and lack of amenities can limit its use. A pool provides a safe, supervised, and accessible environment for swimming lessons, recreation, and families and individuals of all ages and abilities.
There are many ways to get involved—from volunteering and sharing input to supporting fundraising efforts.
As the project progresses, we’ll share opportunities for the community to stay informed, provide feedback, and be part of shaping this project.
Program Partners
Support summer school programs for swim lessons and water safety.
Gathering Space
A place for events, family gatherings, and everyday connections.
Summer Jobs
Provide seasonal jobs for lifeguards, attendants, and pool staff.
Designed For All
Planning for all skill levels includes a slide, diving, and lap lanes.
★★★★★
Health & Activity Gap
22% of adults report no physical activity outside of work, highlighting the need for accessible recreation that supports everyday health.
★★★★★
Built for Families
Survey households average 3.47 people—larger than the city average—showing strong demand for family-focused recreation.
★★★★★
Amenities That Matter
Children’s play areas, zero-entry access, and lap lanes ranked among the most desired features people will actually use.
Phase 2: Project Fundraising
This phase will focus on securing funding to move the project forward. This includes a combination of grants, community donations, partnerships, and potential public support.
Fundraising efforts will be guided by the data and recommendations from Phase 1 to ensure the project is right-sized, financially responsible, and broadly supported by the community.
Phase 3: Construction
Once the funding goals are met, final design and construction of the facility will begin. This phase includes detailed engineering, permitting, and building a community pool that reflects the priorities identified through planning and engagement.
The goal is to deliver a safe, accessible, and sustainable space for recreation, swim education, and community use.