August 18, 2025

A bold new chapter is about to begin for the Chico community. The Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD) is thrilled to invite the public to a momentous groundbreaking ceremony for the future Aquatics & Recreation Center — a transformational project that has been decades in the making. Join us Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 11:30 AM at 13365 Garner Lane to celebrate the start of something extraordinary.

More than just a building, this state-of-the-art facility will be a gathering place, a wellness destination, and a cornerstone of community life for generations to come.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment,” said Annabel Grimm, CARD General Manager. “For years, our community has imagined a place where families can swim, play, grow, and connect year-round. Thanks to the passion, commitment, and generosity of so many, that vision is finally becoming reality.”

The site for the center was generously donated by Ken Grossman and Katie Gonser, two long-time Chico philanthropists whose deep love for this community is now quite literally set in stone. Their gift of land laid the groundwork for what will soon be a thriving hub of health, activity, and fun.

Support for this dream didn’t stop there. CARD is also proud to recognize the California State Parks and the National Park Service, whose $6 million grant through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) provided vital funding to help bring this vision to life. The City of Chico has also been an essential partner, offering steadfast support and resources that have helped move the project forward at every turn.

Designed with heart and intention, the project brings together a powerhouse team: Confluence, Water Technologies Inc., Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture, Rolls Anderson & Rolls, and Ballard King & Associates. Construction is already underway, led by Chico’s own Slater & Son, Inc. The site has been graded, excavation is complete for two of the three pools as well as the mechanical building, and concrete work will be underway by the time the community gathers to celebrate this long-awaited milestone.

“We are honored to be part of a project that will serve our hometown for decades to come,” said Brandon Slater, President of Slater & Son, Inc., the local contractors selected for the construction. “My kids and I can’t wait to launch off the Hi-Fly slide into the 50 Meter Olympic pool.”

To continue the wave of community support, CARD invites you to a magical evening under the stars at Midnight Tides: A Gala Beneath the Waves on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Lakeside Pavilion. Featuring gourmet coastal cuisine, ocean-inspired cocktails, live music by Decades, dazzling entertainment, and a lively dessert auction. All proceeds will directly benefit the Aquatics & Recreation Center. Tickets and details available at www.chicorec.gov/gala.

The August 21 groundbreaking will feature remarks from local leaders, project partners, and community champions. Attendees will also get a preview of the exciting amenities planned for the new center and the long-lasting impact it will have on Chico and beyond.

This is more than a construction project. It’s a promise fulfilled. A future shaped. A legacy built and powered by community, to serve generations.

For more information about the Aquatics & Recreation Center, visit: www.chicorec.gov/aquatics-center. For more information and updates about CARD’s annual fall gala, please visit our website at chicorec.gov/gala. Stay connected with CARD on social media by following us on Facebook and Instagram @chicorec.

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About Chico Area Recreation & Park District

Established in 1948, the Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD) is a California Special District dedicated to enriching the community through diverse recreational opportunities. CARD brings friends and families together to create joyful experiences and lasting memories. It oversees 17 community and neighborhood parks, four community centers, a swimming pool, the Chico Creek Nature Center, and more. CARD offers a wide variety of sports, classes, camps, and special events designed for all ages. Discover more about CARD at chicorec.gov.