PAC breaks ground on new Natatorium, Wellness & Multigenerational Center

March 28, 2024

Marketing and Strategic Communications

Palo Alto College proudly marked a significant milestone on Tuesday, March 26, in its commitment to community wellness and education with the groundbreaking ceremony for its new Natatorium, Wellness & Multigenerational Center. 

A collaborative effort between the City of San Antonio, Alamo Colleges District, and Palo Alto College, the total investment in this project stands at $51.7 million, bringing together funds from various sources, including the 2017 municipal bond, 2022 municipal bond, and Alamo Colleges 2017 bond and 2020 maintenance tax notes.


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“The 2017 bond has allowed our district to truly develop groundbreaking futures across our community and right here on the South Side, with over $125 million being invested in the southern sector of Bexar County,” said Alamo Colleges Chancellor Dr. Mike Flores. “We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey with the groundbreaking of our Natatorium, Wellness & Multigenerational Center.”

The new 90,334-square-foot facility will serve students and the community offering wellness programs, swimming lessons, and competitive sports, promoting inclusivity and holistic well-being. 

“We are thrilled to be celebrating the much anticipated groundbreaking of our Natatorium, Wellness & Multigenerational Center,” said Dr. Robert Garza, President of Palo Alto College. “This facility will not only redefine community spaces but will also serve as a dynamic hub for education, wellness, and recreation, empowering individuals of all ages to thrive.”

In May 2017, Bexar County voters approved a $450 million capital improvement bond for the Alamo Colleges District. Among the exciting projects envisioned was a $19.8 million allocation for Gym & Natatorium renovations. However, subsequent assessments revealed that demolishing the existing natatorium and constructing a new facility would offer the most cost-effective and sustainable solution.

The City of San Antonio and Alamo Colleges District-Palo Alto College came together to reshape the original 2017 project. Funds were appropriated to the 2022 bond project to move the project forward, with $5.3 million coming from a 2017 municipal bond, $10 million from the 2022 municipal bond, and the remaining funds coming from the Alamo Colleges 2017 bond and 2020 maintenance tax notes for a total project cost of $51.7 million.

Boasting a blend of new construction and renovated spaces, the center will offer a range of amenities and programming designed to enrich lives and foster connections.

Key features of the center include:

  • Fitness Spaces: Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to support individual wellness journeys.
  • Multipurpose Rooms: Versatile spaces adaptable for meetings, events, and community gatherings.
  • Indoor Aquatics: Featuring a 50-meter Olympic pool, ideal for swimming, aquatics therapy, and competitive sports.
  • Educational Classrooms: Providing opportunities for lifelong learning and personal development.
  • Indoor Basketball/Volleyball Court: A hub for recreational sports and physical activity for all ages.

The Natatorium, Wellness & Multigenerational Center is poised to become a cornerstone of community engagement and vitality. Palo Alto College extends its sincere gratitude to all stakeholders, partners, and supporters who have contributed to this meaningful endeavor.

For more information about Palo Alto College and the Natatorium, Wellness & Multigenerational Center, and other capital improvement projects, please visit alamo.edu/pac/cip

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"Palo Alto College breaks ground on new wellness center" - KSAT-TV Online, March 26, 2024