splash! at lively park

Completed in 1989, the Lively Park Swim Center was Oregon’s first leisure pool featuring a wave generator. The center also includes a shallow water family play area, wading pool, splashdown pool for a 135-foot open flume water slide, whirlpool spa, and a 6-lane exercise/lap pool. It operates a recreational, instructional, fitness, and therapeutic aquatics program. RSA patterned the center after similar facilities in Canada, which served as valuable models for determining the best combination of amenities and programs. Accordingly, Lively Park Swim Center (more popularly known as “Splash!”) was targeted towards the majority of recreational swimmers. Research had shown that leisure pool facilities generate greater revenue than traditional pools, informing RSA’s design goal of creating a heightened recreational experience. This goal affected placement of the lobby and spectator areas, while also influencing the building's fanciful wave-like form. Budget considerations dictated the use of modest materials. RSA also addressed specific operational issues including the desire to minimize staffing requirements, limit maintenance costs, and prevent crime through environmental design.