The sights and sounds of children swimming will return to Calwa Park for the first time in many years.
Kaiser Permanente Fresno announced Tuesday morning that it is funding the construction of a new pool at the popular park south of the Fresno city limits.

“Our park is highly utilized and to have a new pool here is fantastic,” said Felix Ortiz, administrator for the Calwa Recreation and Park District. “Many of our residents can’t afford a pool, so this is really needed here.”

September Opening for Kaiser Permanente Aquatic Center

Construction starts this summer on the ground east of the park’s old, unused pool. The new pool — dubbed the Kaiser Permanente Aquatic Center — is expected to open in late September in the vicinity of the children’s wading pool.
The old pool, built during the 1950s and in need of about $500,000 in repairs, will be filled in, officials said.
“We heard how much this community missed having access to a pool and wanted to make sure the community had this resource available to them,” said Wade Nogy, senior VP and area manager for Kaiser Permanente Fresno.
“This pool will provide opportunities for families to stay active and cool during the summer, and lead to a healthier Calwa community.”

News Delights Quintero

Fresno County Supervisor Sal Quintero, whose district includes Calwa, has championed a new pool for many years.

“On behalf of the residents of Calwa, a huge thank you to Kaiser Permanente Fresno for working with our office to build and revitalize a community pool that has been unusable for 25 years,” Quintero said.
“This new pool will be a major hub of activity for the community and surrounding area.”

Additional Amenities, Partnerships

In addition to the pool, the park has partnered with other groups to provide the following amenities to residents:
— Free bottled water in collaboration with the Fresno County Department of Health’s “Rethink Your Drink” program.
— Refillable water bottle stations installed by CMG Construction Inc.
— Aquatic exercise programs and swim lessons for children, adults, and seniors.