July 8, 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 8, 2013
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Amanda Shell
Moxley Carmichael
865-255-0661
[email protected]
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The Kingsport Aquatic Center has made a big splash, welcoming tens of thousands of Kingsport residents and area visitors since its opening just over a month ago.
Since the facility opened on May 17, the center has hosted more than 31,000 visits, including one-day guests, season pass holders, and annual members, plus more than 19,000 visits from YMCA of Greater Kingsport members.
“We are thrilled by the enthusiasm and support we have received from the community,” said Chris McCartt, assistant to the city manager. “The Kingsport Aquatic Center has been packed almost every day with people experiencing our indoor and outdoor pools and attractions. Families come to our facility for a one-time visit and end up becoming aquatic center members to enjoy the facility year-round.”
In June, the Kingsport Aquatic Center averaged 1,200 guests each day, and that number continues to grow. Due to the popularity of the facility, the city of Kingsport is opening 78 new parking spaces just in time for the Independence Day holiday weekend. The expansion will increase parking capacity to more than 400 spaces.
“This facility was built for the community to enjoy, and we are working hard to accommodate the huge response by adding more parking and offering shuttle service on peak days,” said McCartt. “It’s wonderful that so many people are so eager to experience the aquatic center.”
As of July 1, the Kingsport Aquatic Center has signed on more than 1,600 members, including both season passes and annual memberships. Season pass holders have access to the center’s indoor and outdoor pools from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and annual members have access to the facilities year-round. Kingsport Aquatic Center annual memberships are available for children, youth, adults, seniors, couples and families and include member rates on classes and an exclusive 10 percent discount on facility rentals and concessions.
In addition to the regular guests, the Kingsport Aquatic Center has become the go-to place for celebrations. The center has already hosted more than 40 birthday parties, and an additional 35 are already scheduled in July and August. The facility offers private party rooms and several party packages.
“We’re having a very busy summer at the Kingsport Aquatic Center,” said McCartt. “We’ve had a great first month, and this is just the beginning. I’m confident the Kingsport Aquatic Center will be the region’s choice for family fitness and fun for many years to come.”
For more information about memberships and facility rentals, visit http://www.swimkingsport.com.
About the Kingsport Aquatic Center
The Kingsport Aquatic Center is the region’s newest and most comprehensive indoor/outdoor public aquatic and recreation facility. Located in Kingsport’s Meadowview district at the base of iconic Bays Mountain, the center provides area residents and visitors with the best in health, fitness and recreation features in a safety-focused environment. The Kingsport Aquatic Center features the area’s only indoor Olympic-size pool plus year-round swim courses and American Red Cross-certified water safety and lifeguard training. A seasonal outdoor water park offers recreational activities from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Seasonal, annual and daily rates are available. For more information, visit http://www.swimkingsport.com.
