In 2017, Counsilman-Hunsaker was retained by Ste. Genevieve County to develop conceptual options and scenarios for consideration by the county for an outdoor waterpark. The Outdoor Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study identified the aquatic needs for the county and presented potential facility spaces that met those needs.

Meetings were held with several stakeholder groups and the Aquatic Facility Steering Committee. The county envisioned a facility that not only met the needs of swimmers in the community but also provided a destination with unique amenities and features to attract visitors from outside the community. To meet the goals of the county’s vision, a variety of options were explored for aquatic centers, ranging from small, medium, to large. The feasibility study provided a space program analysis and project costs for three conceptual options, each detailing site-specific construction estimates with line item costs for the proposed space. Along with each concept, the team provided a revenue and expense analysis to illustrate a complete picture of what the facility would cost to build and operate. From the proposed options, the county chose a preferred option in which additional concept designs were explored.

Pleased with the results of the study, the county decided to move forward with the design of a 98,968 sq. ft. family aquatic center with a budget of $10 million.

In addition to study and design services, Counsilman-Hunsaker provided pre-opening and training services which included a Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FFE) analysis, Standard Operating Procedures manual creation, and onsite training for facility staff. The FFE analysis included an analysis of the equipment required for facility operation and quote gathering to deliver preferred pricing from industry partners and providers, ultimately saving the County an estimated $48,000.