The Bartlesville Chamber of Commerce and the City of Bartlesville hired Counsilman-Hunsaker to study the feasibility of building an aquatic center at Sooner Park Pool. The study considered three options: indoor, outdoor, and combination pools. After analyzing attendance, expenses, revenue, and construction costs, the city elected to refinish the existing pool and expand the facility with three new 40-foot-tall water slides and space for an additional three flumes in the future. The slides were completed in time for the 2023 summer pool season.
The new slides are located adjacent to the existing pool deck and feature a variety of twists and turns to provide a thrilling experience for swimmers of all ages. All three slides are body slides, and one is a speed slide. All slides have safety features including lifeguards at the start and finish and emergency stop buttons.
In addition to the new slides, the Sooner Park Pool expansion project also included other new features. The total cost of the Sooner Pool expansion project is approximately $3.5 million. The Half-cent Capital Improvement Project Sales Tax and the American Rescue Plan Act fund the project.
The new slides at the Sooner Pool are expected to be a popular attraction for residents and visitors alike. The slides will provide a fun and exciting way for swimmers of all ages to cool off during summer.