Making a Splash
Since the early 1970’s when construction on Kepler Pool first began, Valley residents have flocked there to beat the heat. However, over the last two summer seasons there has been no choice but to sweat as the planned renovations came to a grinding halt. Fortunately, the Nittany Valley Joint Recreation Authority is close to getting us back in the water.
When the NVJRA formed in 2013 they were charged with owning and managing the pool. Plans were made for the redesign and rebuild in 2018 and they have worked tirelessly to secure design plans and grant funding to support the project. In addition to the main pool, the new designs will include a children’s wading pool, improvement to ADA access, upgrades to the bathhouse and concession areas, additional entertainment features and infrastructure to host sporting events. The design will meet the current trends in outdoor recreation and is expected to increase Bellefonte’s desirability as a summer family destination.
“We feel that a pool is a crucial piece of the fabric of the community. It helps build foundational skills for individuals and gives families an outdoor recreational option in the summer. It's a visible and important piece to a thriving community and makes the area attractive to those who have made, or to those who are going to make, this area home.” - Chris Haak, Chair - Nittany Valley Joint Recreation Authority.
The pool will be open to all members of the public when it’s complete. Individuals will be able to visit by using annual passes or by purchasing daily passes. It's expected that rentals will be available for private parties as well as rentals to the numerous swim teams in the area.
At the time of print, the NVJRA is 86% of the way to their funding goal and eager to begin construction as soon as late spring/early summer of this year [2023]. The remaining funding is expected to come through a combination of county/public development grants, public and private donations. To that end, naming rights of various features and structures are still being considered! Nittany Valley Recreation, Inc, a local nonprofit, is spearheading the public donation drive. Nonprofit President Mike Musser states, “Our organization believes in the Kepler project and is committed to increasing the public’s engagement, financial support and support through volunteerism.” Representatives from the NJVRA and NVRI went on to say that volunteer assistance is welcomed and needed at both organizations for project fundraising and management.
Visit www.bellefontepool.org to donate, sign up for milestone updates and be notified when 2024 memberships become available!
