For the first time in decades, Indian Trails Aquatic Center at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park is set to undergo major renovations. The $15 million in improvements, which begin this coming winter, will modernize Lenexa’s most visited outdoor pool and enhance its status as a destination aquatics facility for the community.
The City has gathered extensive input through surveys, focus groups and workshops about what features the community desires at Indian Trails Aquatic Center. “We are excited to be able to deliver what residents of all ages told us they want at this pool,” said Lenexa Parks & Recreation Director Logan Wagler. “There will be something for everyone to enjoy — from general recreation and swim lessons to aquatic fitness and our swim and dive team.”
Amenities at Indian Trails Aquatic Center will include:
- A lazy river (most important feature residents want)
- Slides
- Deep water and diving boards
- Toddler features / play structure
- Zero-depth pool entry
- Lap lanes
- More shade areas
- Comfortable deck space and deck chairs
- Family restrooms
Construction costs continue to rise due to global market conditions. But the City has worked closely with architect Confluence and contractor McCownGordon to include as many community priorities in the conceptual design as possible. Reusing and rehabilitating parts of the current structure that are in good condition will help the project stay within budget.
The City also plans to add more parking and improve sidewalk connections at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Later this year, a new tunnel will be built under busy 87th Street Parkway to provide safer access between the park and Little Mill Creek Trail.
Indian Trails Aquatic Center will be closed for construction from early 2023 through spring 2024, reopening in time for the summer pool season that year. Ad Astra and Flat Rock Creek pools will be open during summer 2023.
How we got here
The City of Lenexa completed an Aquatics Study in 2021 meant to help leadership make decisions about future aquatics investments in the community. In response to study recommendations, the Lenexa City Council allocated a $15 million capital improvement project to upgrade Indian Trails Aquatic Center.
Indian Trails Aquatic Center provides the most comprehensive aquatic offerings of Lenexa’s three outdoor pools. It was originally built in 1976, with other areas added in 1998. Improvements will address the pool’s aging structures and systems that have reached the end of their useful life. The facility also will gain modern mix of amenities to meet a wide range of needs.
Follow the latest project news on the Indian Trails Aquatic Center Improvements webpage.