Decatur’s Aquadome closing after nearly 60 years to make way for new rec center

This Sunday, September 13, will be the final day of operation for a staple in Decatur’s parks and recreation community. The city’s Aquadome, which housed swimming, fitness, community gatherings and more over the course of nearly 60 years, is closing for good as the city makes way for the new Decatur Recreation Center (set to open September 21).

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Saying goodbye to the Aquadome + welcoming the Decatur Recreation Center

The Aquadome was built in 1968, the brainchild of then-mayor Gilmer Blackburn. Since then, it had stood as a central gathering place for the residents of Decatur, whether they used it for swimming, fitness, social gatherings, meetings or connecting with the community.

The facility featured a 100-foot-diameter dome with 36 Plexiglas panels, making it the largest domed pool in the United States at the time.

“Nearly 60 years of recreation means nearly 60 years of memories. While it is bittersweet to see this chapter come to an end, we are incredibly grateful for every person who has walked through the Aquadome’s doors and made it part of Decatur’s story. As we say goodbye to a longtime community landmark, we’re also preparing for what’s next.”

_{Statement from Decatur Parks & Recreation}

What’s next is the 103,000-square-foot Decatur Recreation Center, located at 270 Beltline Road SW. The new facility will open Monday, September 21, with open gym, lap swim, fitness classes and more core programs.

The new facility will offer:

• Four indoor courts
• An elevated walking track
• 10-lane competition pool
• Fitness areas
• Multipurpose rooms
• Locker rooms
• Administrative offices
• A concession area

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