The Aquatics Center, located in the Gallogly Recreation and Wellness Center, reopened on March 30 after closing over spring break to finish renovations that began in November 2025.
The structural renovations cost $550,000 and include repaired walkways and pool plaster and a repainted ceiling with non-epoxy paint according to David Fehring, the director of campus recreations.
The renovations were funded by the Campus Recreation Operating Reserves, which are supported by the Campus Recreation student fee. This fee was $197 for spring 2026, according to the Bursar’s Office.
According to Fehring, over 8,500 people visit the Aquatics center annually.
Open recreation is free to all students and is open Monday-Friday from 6-9 a.m., 11-2 p.m., and 4-8 p.m. On weekends, open recreation is from 12-4 p.m.
Students can swim in the vortex pool and the 25-yard lap lanes, use the slide and hydro-therapy jets, and play water basketball and volleyball. There is also a hot tub.
“We have a 20-person hot tub, so if you’re looking for some relaxation after a long day of classes or activities, you can take a dip in it,” said Fehring.
The Aquatics Center also hosts events, swim lessons and certification trainings.
The Aqua Poolooza hosted by the Student Outdoor Learning Experience center and the Aquatics Center is on April 10 from 7-8:30 p.m., and will include slacklining over water and key log rolling. Entry is free for students.
Swimming lessons are available for most ages and are taught with certified instructors, however, the lessons are not free. Prices vary depending on if the lesson is private or semi-private.
Certification trainings for CPR, first aid and lifeguarding are conducted in partnership with the American Red Cross and American Heart Association. Certifications training at the center is cheaper than elsewhere in Colorado Springs, according to Fehring.
The aquatics center in the Gallogly Recreation and Wellness Center. Photo by Josiah Dolan.