Clarksville Now publishes opinion pieces representing both sides of a variety of topics. Opinions presented do not necessarily reflect those of the newsroom or management. To join the conversation, email your opinion piece to news@clarksvillenow.com.
Contributed commentary by Carrie Smith, a Clarksville resident:
I am writing to stir up some interest for an indoor aquatic center here in Clarksville. I spoke via email with Randy Kelly (Parks and Rec) and he confirmed that there was some interest in building a facility over the next couple of years at the Clarksville Speedway property once it closes. We need a pool now, not maybe in two years.
I feel the city/county is in desperate need of a facility for several reasons. There is only one indoor year-round facility in town that is reliably open at the YMCA. The facility simply cannot support a competitive team due to size and lack of diving platforms. Clarksville Athletic Club has a pool, but it is often closed for repairs. Both of these pools are quickly aging. New Providence (indoor) pool is currently closed and also cannot support a completion team as it has no diving platforms.
Several families (including mine) drive to Nashville multiple nights per week to have access to a competition pool. I don’t want to spend my money in Nashville any longer, but there is literally no option for a swim team in Clarksville.
The pool will be a large initial investment, but when run correctly can make money for the city. Multiple programs can be running simultaneously such as swim lessons, club and competition teams, school-based teams, adult swim and triathlon training, water therapy, Austin Peay State University could form a team, water polo, and water aerobics classes could all bring in revenue for the facility.
Carrie Smith