Indoor aquatic center nears completion

Norman Guenther (left), Air Force Center for Engineering and the Environment project manager, and Frank Mahlau, Züblin project engineer, supervise the first filling of the lap pool within Ramstein's new aquatic center, May 9. Construction is now 92 percent complete and the opening ceremony is scheduled for July 1st. Photo by Airman 1st Class Amber Bressler

Ramstein’s aquatic center nears completion

Published May 30, 2008
By Airman 1st Class Amber Bressler
435th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- Construction of Ramstein's indoor aquatic center is now 95 percent complete.

"Remaining construction items include planting grass, trees and shrubbery outside the facility, and completing installation of lights, electrical fixtures, installation of door hardware, lockers and some tile work," said Norman Guenther, Air Force Center for Engineering and the Environment construction project manager.

The indoor aquatic center is located next to the north side post office. This location was chosen as part of the community development plan for recreational facilities.

It is in close proximity to the north side fitness center and the golf course, with easy access from housing and dormitory areas.

The aquatic center will have an array of activities and classes for everyone, such as lap swimming, water aerobics, and youth and adult swim lessons.
The year-round swimming facility is equipped with three pools, each designed for different levels of swimming ability.

The main pool will be used for physical fitness and a variety of classes for everyone. The second pool is designed for adult non-swimmers and youth; it includes a splash-down slide and toddler pool for younger children. The third is a wading pool for very young beginner swimmers.

Other attractions will be a snack bar, retail store, party area and outdoor patio.

The keys to the indoor aquatic center will be handed over to the 435th Services Squadron July 1.

It will be open to the public as soon as all systems are fully functional and the staff has been properly trained.

All U.S. military ID cardholders will have access to the facility which includes military, Department of Defense civilians, dependents and others as outlined in AFI 34-262, Services Programs and Use Eligibility.

"Ramstein's indoor aquatic center will provide a variety of swimming pools to improve the quality of life and physical fitness of active duty personnel and their families through water activities," said Mr. Guenther. "The pool will compliment other fitness and morale, welfare and recreation programs on base."