The anticipation in Lake Oswego, OR, is unmistakable. For years, residents have watched as a vision for a modern, inclusive, and sustainable recreation facility took shape. Now, that vision stands ready to welcome the community, promising not just new amenities, but a transformation in how people come together to play, learn, and grow.
As I walk up to the new Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatics Center and Golf Course at 17525 Stafford Road, I feel a sense of pride and excitement. This facility is more than just a building; it’s a testament to what a community can achieve when it comes together with a shared purpose. The grand opening on April 26 marks a milestone that will resonate for generations, inviting everyone to experience health, wellness, and connection in a whole new way.
A Community Vision Realized
When the City of Lake Oswego and the Lake Oswego School District first announced plans for a new recreation and aquatics center, the goal was clear: create a space that serves everyone. The project, made possible by the 2019 Parks Bond and additional city and district funds, reflects years of community input and collaboration. Residents voiced their hopes for a facility that would support lifelong recreation, foster wellness, and enhance the city’s livability and economic vitality.
The result is a state-of-the-art center designed to meet the diverse needs of the Lake Oswego community. From the outset, inclusivity was a guiding principle. The facility’s layout, programming, and amenities were all shaped by feedback from people of all ages and abilities. This is a place where families, athletes, seniors, and students will find opportunities to thrive- whether they’re swimming laps, playing basketball, or simply enjoying the company of friends and neighbors.
Features That Set a New Standard
Stepping inside the Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatics Center and Golf Course, I’m struck by the sheer range of offerings. The aquatic area features a 12-lane, 25-yard competition pool, perfect for swim meets and serious training. Nearby, a 4,500-square-foot recreational pool provides a more relaxed environment, complete with three additional lanes for lap swimming, a spa, and a vibrant kids’ area with a waterslide and play structures.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the expansive weight and cardio area, while the 7,250-square-foot gym is ready to host everything from league play to community events. Multiple group fitness rooms offer spaces for classes, outreach programs, and gatherings. The welcoming front desk area streamlines check-in for all activities, including golf, and provides office space for staff. Locker rooms, ADA-compliant bathrooms, and accessible pathways ensure that everyone can participate comfortably and confidently.
Sustainability and Accessibility at the Forefront
What truly distinguishes this project is its commitment to sustainability and accessibility. The facility is projected to achieve a 46% energy savings compared to traditional designs, thanks to features like low-carbon concrete, a regenerative media filtration system, and rooftop solar panels. All lighting is LED, and water-saving fixtures are installed throughout. The building’s materials were chosen for durability, low emissions, and, whenever possible, recycled or locally sourced content.
Accessibility is woven into every aspect of the center. Proper grading, ADA-compliant locker rooms and bathrooms, braille signage, and multiple pool lifts ensure that people with disabilities can enjoy the pools and other amenities. Bicycle parking and EV charging stations support greener transportation, while the design itself prioritizes long-term maintenance and community well-being.
The Reimagined Golf Course
The adjacent golf course, redesigned by architect Dan Hixson, is another highlight. The new nine-hole layout replaces the previous 18-hole par-three course, offering larger fairways, expanded tees, and bigger greens with varied undulations for a sportier, more engaging experience. The course now stretches to approximately 1,600 yards, featuring three par fours and six par threes, which provide both challenge and enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels.
The renovation also includes an expanded driving range, a new putting green, and a modern maintenance facility. Guided tours during the grand opening will showcase these improvements, underscoring the city’s commitment to providing top-tier recreational opportunities.
Oswego Hall: A New Community Hub
The transformation doesn’t stop at the central facility. Oswego Hall, formerly the clubhouse, has been reimagined as an extension of the Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatics Center and Golf Course. This space will host events, recreational programs, and community gatherings, further strengthening the center’s role as a hub for connection and celebration.
With its flexible design, Oswego Hall is poised to become a premier venue for a wide range of events, from birthday parties to educational workshops. It’s a testament to the city’s vision of creating spaces that adapt to the evolving needs of the community.
Opening Day and Beyond
The grand opening on April 26 is more than just a ribbon-cutting. It’s a celebration of possibility. The festivities begin at 9:30 a.m., with speeches and the official ceremony at 10:00 a.m. Guests can explore the facility through self-guided tours, learn about Parks & Recreation programs, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and meet the project’s partners. Guided tours of the golf course will highlight its new features, while information booths provide insight into upcoming classes and events.
Starting April 27, the center opens its doors for regular use. The gymnasium, weight and cardio areas, fitness rooms, lobby, and the renovated golf course will all be available to the public. The aquatic facilities will open soon after, adding even more ways to stay active and connected.
As I reflect on the journey that brought the Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatics Center and Golf Course to life, I’m reminded of the power of community. This facility stands as a symbol of what’s possible when people work together, dream big, and invest in the future of their city.
For Lake Oswego, OR, this is more than a new building’s promise kept, a vision realized, and a foundation for generations of wellness, play, and connection. Whether you’re a swimmer, golfer, athlete, or simply someone who values community, the doors are open. The future of recreation in Lake Oswego is here, and it’s brighter than ever.
Source: ci.oswego.or.us
Header Image Source: ci.oswego.or.us
