Project Updates
On July 20, 2026, the Board of Commissioners unanimously approved an agreement with LS3P to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for the proposed Cumberland County Aquatic Center.
The study will provide the Board with the information needed to determine whether an Aquatic Center is feasible, sustainable and fiscally responsible and how a potential facility could best serve the community.
What Will the Feasibility Study Examine?
The feasibility study will evaluate key considerations including:
- Community needs and potential programming
- Market demand and opportunities for regional, state and national competitions
- Potential facility features and amenities
- Site options and requirements
- Accessibility and inclusive design
- Capital and operating costs
- Potential revenues and funding strategies
- Operational models and long-term financial sustainability
- Economic and tourism impacts
- Potential implementation options and timelines
The study will also include conceptual planning and opportunities for community and stakeholder input.
Community Priorities
Cumberland County began gathering preliminary stakeholder input in August 2025 from community partners and stakeholders.
Early discussions identified several priorities for consideration during the feasibility study, including:
- Opportunities for competitive swimming and aquatic sports
- Community access and programming for residents of all ages
- Swimming instruction, wellness and fitness programming
- Accessibility and ADA-compliant design
- Opportunities to attract regional, state and national competitions
- Economic impact and sports tourism
- Long-term operational and financial sustainability
These ideas are considerations for the feasibility study and do not represent an approved facility design or final project scope.
Project Timeline
- August 2025: Preliminary stakeholder meeting held to identify community needs and potential priorities.
- December 2025: County issued a Request for Proposals for a comprehensive feasibility study.
- April 2026: Board selected LS3P as the preferred firm to conduct the feasibility study.
- July 2026: Board approved the agreement with LS3P to conduct the comprehensive feasibility study.
The study findings will provide the Board of Commissioners with information about community needs, potential locations and facility concepts, estimated costs, operations, funding considerations and long-term sustainability. The Board will use that information to determine whether and how the project should move forward.