Scheels Aim High Big Sky Aquatic and Recreation Center
The Scheels Aim High Big Sky Aquatic and Recreation Center is a shared vision that came to life in Great Falls. With different reasons for wanting a new aquatics and recreation facility, the city and Malmstrom Air Force Base (MAFB) joined forces, pulled in outside partners, investors, and consultants, and worked together to make their dream come to life.
The project stemmed from two reasons: In 2018, the city closed its only indoor pool facility due to structural failure, and to satisfy the required water rescue/survival training to maintain the Air Force’s flying mission qualifications. MAFB also wanted this facility to help enhance military quality of life in Great Falls by providing additional recreational activities for Airmen and their families who live on and off base.
To make these desires come to life, the city and MAFB collaborated to obtain a Department of Defense grant. However, they needed outside support beyond the original $20 million to complete the project. Scheels Sporting Goods came on board to fill the gap as a partner, and the non-profit Bannack Group helped secure many community donations.
The result is a new 50,000 sq. ft. indoor aquatics and recreational facility with a lap pool, a therapeutic pool, a recreational pool for community and service member families and children, general open fitness areas, an indoor gym space, drop-off childcare, classrooms, and ancillary support facilities.
Morrison-Maierle designed the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems for the project. This involved meeting strict HVAC requirements and implementing temperature, humidity, air flow, and pressure controls to ensure occupant comfort and ensure the integrity of the building.
Mechanical Challenges and Strategies
Few facilities have more stringent HVAC requirements than aquatics centers. Morrison-Maierle’s HVAC engineers took specific considerations into account and designed solutions to ensure that the facility had:
- A proper pressure control strategy
- Precise temperature and humidity control
- Appropriate ventilation rates
- Effective air distribution
HVAC design is particularly important in aquatic centers, as improper installation can cause the facility to sustain serious long-term damage and cause occupant health and safety issues.
Electrical Challenges and Strategies
Aquatic centers are naturally corrosive environments, so our team paid particular attention to avoid damaging the electrical system. They addressed several areas specific to this type of project to address corrosion control, including:
- Chemical storage area wiring
- Chlorine room conduits
- Pool-area luminaires and lighting levels
- Safety and maintenance lighting and devices
Ready for More Information?
We have provided MEP, structural , ICT, and fire protection system designs for aquatic centers and athletic facilities of all shapes and sizes. If your client or community partners are interested in learning more about what we do, please contact us today.
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