Photo Credit: City of O'Fallon
Not many municipal services are guaranteed to put a smile on someone’s face, but on any given summer afternoon at Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center in O’Fallon, Mo., laughter and shrieks of fun can be heard long before one gets to the entrance gate.
In 2001, the city replaced its 20-year-old swimming pool with two waterslides, a lazy river, a competition pool with lap lanes, a shallower pool with a beach entry, poolside water spouts for toddlers, and an interactive water playground. The change opened up opportunities for swimmers of all ages and abilities to enjoy the water.
“This is a great place for parents and grandparents to bring kids because there’s so much to do,” says Jakcee McCall, Aquatics/Fitness Recreation Coordinator. “Last year we added our third waterslide and installed tipping buckets over the lazy river. We have such a great team of lifeguards constantly watching over each of the pools and the waterslides, ready to act in case of emergency. Our lifeguards meet professional training standards, and every morning before the pool opens, they refresh their skills.”