The Aquatic Center is Phase IV of a much larger, multi-phased, master-planned recreational complex for this small Mississippi Delta County. The Aquatic Center was designed to provide a variety of recreational opportunities and services for citizens of all age groups, and also to provide facilities to host various aquatic events. 

From the start, the County had distinct goals including: 1). Improving the quality of life for County citizens; 2). Providing a stimulus for additional quality-of-life improvements; 3). Choosing building systems and components with economics and maintenance in mind; and 4). Utilizing a metal building system to take advantage of the system's ease of construction and competition between manufacturers. 

The program called for a 50-meter pool that can be divided into two 25-meter pools and a diving well with 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0-meter diving platforms and springboards. For the young and young at heart, there is a 2,000-square-foot feature pool which ranges from a zero-inch entry to a thirty-inch depth with 14 water features of various types, sizes, and colors. 

To create a space which reflects an energy and playfulness to help promote a healthier lifestyle, the architect drew ideas from the vast richness of colors, shapes, textures, and materials that surround the site. 

Rectilinear fields and the simple geometrics of barns, silos, and other agrarian equipment inspired the simple geometry of the exterior. On the opposite hand, the natural surroundings, including the river, allowed for the introduction of soft curved forms on the interior of the facility. 

The Aquatic Center provided a wide variety of planning and design challenges. One of the client's major concerns was to provide visual observation of the facility by staff members from a centralized location, which also functions as a reception area for the Center. Around this reception area are the staff offices, public restrooms, concessions, and a pro shop. 

Economics of the structural system and the simplicity of systems allow for the creation of an impressive interior space. This will facilitate the future addition of therapy space, whirlpool tubs, and mezzanine level spectator seating. 

The success of this project is due to the vision of the architect, supervisors, and citizens of Tunica County to design and build a facility of which everyone can be proud.

MANUFACTURERS/SUPPLIERS 
DIV 07: Metal Roof: Star Building Systems. 
DIV 08: Entrances & Storefronts: EFCO Corporation. 
DIV 09: Tile: Crossville Porcelain Stone. 
DIV 13: Pre-Engineered Building: Star Building Systems.