About the GAC

Three (3) bodies of water are included in this innovative aquatic complex;

• 50-meter stretch competition pool that is 25 yards wide with 8 long course and 16 to 22 lanes for short-course
• 25-yard x 46’ warm-up/down teaching and therapeutic pool with 6 swimming lanes
• 25-yard diving well with 6 swimming lanes and 8 diving apparatus

The combined water surface area of these pools is 17,895 square feet or approximately 1.5 million gallons of water. The facility will accommodate 1,848 off-deck permanent spectator seats and deck bleacher seating bringing total capacity to 2,500 persons.

The competition pool is an all-deep water pool, 52.5 meters by 25 yards with two moveable fiberglass bulkheads which will allow up to 10 different pool configurations (eight 50-meter lanes, 16 25-meter lanes, 22 25-yard lanes, etc.) for maximum flexibility. It will also have the capability to host two water polo events simultaneously and the main pool depth is 9’ throughout tapering to 10’.

A 25-yard wide diving well, 17 feet deep, will be outfitted with a sparger system or soft water landing. The separate diving well features:

• a pair of one-and three-meter springboards
• 5, 7.5 and 10-meter diving platforms

Divers will also have access to warming showers directly adjacent to the diving platforms.

The competition pool and diving well will be equipped with complete state-of-the-art timing and scoring systems that include: track start systems, timing and scoring systems. High tech touch pads and relay judging platforms with speed lights to assist hearing impaired individuals will also be featured.

Pace clocks, underwater speakers for underwater recall and training, underwater lighting and remote judging terminals for diving and synchronized swimming competitions are also included in the design.

The Aquatic Center will also be equipped with a full color LED video display and scoreboard that incorporates state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems tied to the timing system. 

The warm-up pool, 25 yards x 46’, offers a fully ADA accessible ramp access for those with limited mobility and patrons in wheelchairs. In addition, the warm-up pool will have a handicap chair lift.  A wide range of activities will be programmed for this space, including fitness classes, exercise programs, rehabilitation and sports injury recovery programs. This pool will be 4’ deep and equipped with five swimming lanes.

A reception/control desk will be strategically placed for the observation and control of patrons and competitors entering the GAC, assuring a secure facility.  Its location will enable staff to monitor the operation of the center and observe the pulse of activity at any time of the day’s schedule.  A pro shop will also be housed within the venue and will stock the latest swimwear, apparel, swim supplies and accessories from leading aquatic manufacturers. 

Men’s and women’s locker rooms are provided with private shower accommodations and ample toilet facilities.  Designated master’s locker areas and youth locker rooms are also provided.  In addition, a family changing room is located adjacent to the training pool. Additional amenities include ample support space for aquatic programs including wet classrooms directly accessible from the pool decks, dry classrooms, a production room, a fitness room, a trainer’s/first aid room and separate accommodations for lifeguards.

All pools feature pressure regenerative filters selected for their high quality water, low consumption of potable water and minimal waste.  These units were selected to enhance the sustainable nature of the overall building design.  State of the art ultra violet water treatment will also be integrated with the filtration system.  All pools feature high quality stainless steel re-circulating gutters designed specifically to enhance the competitive experience in the GAC and improve swim times. 

The combination of deep water, rapid evacuation of wave action, and state-of-the-art competitive accessories will ensure that the Greensboro Aquatic Center will be recognized as a “fast pool” capable of producing many new record times.