The Atkinson Swimming Pool, located at 700 N. Main St. in Atkinson, Nebraska, is a popular summer destination for locals and visitors alike. Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the pool provides a refreshing oasis during the hot summer months.
Facilities and Amenities
The Atkinson Swimming Pool is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that features a 25-meter, six-lane pool with a diving board, a slide, and a splash pad for younger children. The pool is staffed by trained lifeguards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
In addition to the pool, the facility features a large deck area with lounge chairs, shaded areas for those seeking relief from the sun, and a concession stand serving a variety of snacks and drinks. The pool is also available for private parties and events, providing a unique and fun venue for birthday parties, family reunions, and other gatherings.
Programming and Events
The Atkinson Swimming Pool offers a range of programming and events throughout the summer season. Swim lessons are available for visitors of all ages and skill levels, providing a valuable opportunity for skill development and water safety education.
The pool also hosts a variety of community events throughout the season, such as movie nights, pool parties, and swim meets, providing visitors with fun and memorable experiences. Additionally, the pool offers a variety of fitness classes, such as water aerobics and lap swimming, providing visitors with a low-impact, high-intensity workout in a unique setting.
Community Impact
The Atkinson Swimming Pool has a positive impact on the community in several ways. From a health and wellness perspective, the pool promotes physical activity and provides a low-impact form of exercise that is accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities.
The pool also has an economic impact on the community, attracting visitors from outside of Atkinson and generating revenue for local businesses. The pool employs a staff of lifeguards and concession stand workers, providing job opportunities for local residents.

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Beyond the economic benefits, the Atkinson Swimming Pool fosters a sense of community pride and ownership. As a community-run organization, the pool relies on volunteers and donations to keep its doors open each summer. The pool’s success is a testament to the commitment and generosity of the Atkinson community, and it serves as a source of pride for residents who value its role in the community.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the Atkinson Swimming Pool has been a beloved community institution for many years, it faces several challenges in the coming years. One of the biggest challenges is maintaining and upgrading the pool’s aging infrastructure. The pool requires regular maintenance and repairs to ensure its safety and functionality, and major upgrades, such as a new filtration system or pool deck replacement, can be costly.
Another challenge facing the Atkinson Swimming Pool is competition from other recreational activities and facilities. With so many options available for summer activities, from sports leagues to day camps to theme parks, it can be challenging to attract and retain visitors to the pool.
Despite these challenges, the Atkinson Swimming Pool also presents several opportunities for growth and expansion. One potential area for growth is in the pool’s programming and events. By expanding the pool’s offerings, such as adding new fitness classes or hosting more community events, the pool can attract a wider audience and increase its relevance to the community.
Another opportunity for the Atkinson Swimming Pool is in partnerships with other local organizations. By collaborating with schools, businesses, and community groups, the pool can leverage its resources and expertise to provide valuable services and experiences to the community. For example, the pool could partner with local schools to provide swim lessons and water safety education to students, or partner with businesses to offer special promotions or events.
Conclusion
Overall, the Atkinson Swimming Pool is a valuable community resource that provides a safe and enjoyable summer destination for visitors of all ages. Its impact on the community extends beyond recreation, promoting health and wellness, creating job opportunities, and fostering community pride. While the pool faces challenges in maintaining its facilities and competing with other summer activities, it also presents opportunities for growth and expansion through programming and partnerships.

As a community-run organization, the success of the Atkinson Swimming Pool depends on the continued support and involvement of the Atkinson community, ensuring that this valued institution remains an important part of the community for many years to come.
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