Landmark investment jumpstarts construction of year-round public swim facility
In a major boost for regional recreation and public health, the City of Solvang has awarded a $450,000 grant to support the construction of the Santa Ynez Valley Community Aquatics Complex — a transformative, once-in-a-generation project designed to restore year-round public swim access to the Valley.
The grant, which will be disbursed upon groundbreaking and is available for up to three years, represents a significant show of support for the capital campaign currently underway. Local leaders say the funding not only marks a pivotal step forward but also sends a powerful message to other potential donors across Santa Barbara County.
“This grant is not only a critical step forward — it’s a call to action,” said Lisa Palmer, Board President and Campaign Chair of the Santa Ynez Valley Community Aquatics Foundation (SYVCAF). “We are deeply grateful to the City of Solvang for making this bold investment in the health and safety of our Valley. We hope it inspires matching contributions and additional support from public and private sectors alike.”
The need for a new facility has grown urgent since public access to the Santa Ynez Valley Union High School (SYHS) pool was discontinued in 2020. Since then, Valley residents have had no public swim options, and SYHS athletes have been unable to host CIF-sanctioned events due to the limitations of the current 60-year-old pool.
The proposed complex, to be built on the SYHS campus, aims to change that. Plans include a 33-meter competition pool to support student athletics, local clubs, and lap swim, alongside a 25-yard warm-water recreation pool designed for swim instruction, aqua therapy, fitness classes, and affordable community access.
“Access to a public pool isn’t a luxury — it’s essential,” said Solvang City Manager Randy Murphy, who also serves on the project’s Campaign Steering Committee. “Solvang is proud to be part of a regional solution that will benefit families, students, and seniors alike. We believe this investment will help build momentum and partnerships throughout Santa Barbara County.”
The Aquatics Complex will offer comprehensive programming for all ages and abilities, including learn-to-swim classes, rehabilitation services, senior wellness programs, and space for competitive events — filling a longstanding gap in the Valley’s recreational infrastructure.
To learn more about the project or to contribute, visit syvpool.org.
