The Geneseo Community Center’s indoor pool lobby recently was renovated using a $25,000 grant provided by the Geneseo Foundation.
Built in 1996, the indoor pool lobby was dominated by a large staff desk area. “When it was built, the goal was to have this entrance be the main entrance for the building,” said Molly Hamer, executive director of the Geneseo Community Park District.
Located on the west side of the building, the pool entrance never became the main entrance for the complex, as planned.
“People coming to use the gym still use the (north) doors. We’re comfortable with now having two main entrances,” said Hamer.
As a result, the pool lobby desk was larger than needed. An arcade room built off the pool lobby no longer fit its original function either.
“The arcade games were removed about 10 years ago. We made the room into a pool side lounge about 10 years ago,” said Hamer. However the lounge’s out-of-the way location made it seldom
used.
Instead, using funds from the Geneseo Foundation, the lounge room was turned into the pool’s front desk and staff area. Service windows were added allowing staff to greet patrons as they enter.
The previous desk location, which overlooks the pool, has been made into a lounge and seating area.
Couches, tables and stools — plus the space’s more central location — have made it a popular place for parents to watch their children at lessons in the pool or friends to gather after a workout.
“We have a lot of people stopping for a cup of coffee in this area,” said Hamer.
The space can also be used in conjunction with birthday pool parties. “After swimming in the pool,they can come here for their cake and treats,” she said.
The two-month renovation project was completed around Christmas. “It’s a nice place to sit and relax,” said Hamer, who added the park district staff designed the lobby to have multiple gathering spaces.
“You can come and visit with friends, or you can sit on your own with a laptop using our Wi-fi,” she said.
Since its construction, the indoor pool has been popular with area residents. “Last year alone we had 2,600 take our water fitness classes (only offered in the indoor pool),”
said Hamer.
Because of the pool’s popularity, granting funds for the lobby’s renovation was an easy decision, said Geneseo Foundation board member Todd Sieben.
“We know just what a wide range of people the indoor pool serves, from little kids having their first swimming lesson to seniors in the water fitness classes,” said Sieben. “This was a direct response to needs in the community.”
In addition to an array of classes, the indoor pool has open swimming hours from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays and from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Geneseo, Ill. —
