I retired earlier this year after over twenty years as a parks and recreation director. Throughout my career, I often shared "aquatic war stories" with colleagues. Nearly everyone who has built or managed a pool has faced challenges, yet people remain committed to the industry. Why?

Commercial aquatic facilities are about more than just recreation — they serve as centers for fitness, education, and community. These facilities teach essential water safety skills, provide therapeutic benefits, support local economies, and foster healthier, more connected communities. Now, in my new role with Landmark Aquatic, a national commercial aquatics company that designs, builds, and maintains aquatic facilities, and seeing the industry from the outside in, the benefits of these aquatic facilities stand out even more.

First, the aquatics industry is filled with people deeply passionate about safety. From those selling chlorine to engineers designing water slides, there is a collective dedication to ensuring the safety of pool users. This commitment to protecting patrons is rare in other industries.

In today’s digital age, spaces that promote physical activity, social interaction, and wellness are more essential than ever. Commercial aquatic facilities provide these benefits, serving as vital hubs not only for recreation but also for fostering healthier, more engaged communities.

A key role these facilities play is in water safety education and drowning prevention. According to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death, with 75% of child drowning deaths involving children under the age of 5. Additionally, 54% of Americans lack basic swimming skills, highlighting the need for better swimming education and safety measures. I recently spoke with a park director whose facility saved four lives in just one afternoon — a stark reminder that water safety education is essential everywhere. Community pools teach life-saving swim skills in supportive environments, playing an essential role in reducing these tragedies.

Commercial aquatic facilities also bring economic benefits to communities by attracting visitors and driving business to local restaurants, shops, and hotels. Larger waterparks can boost tourism, while local pools create jobs for lifeguards, maintenance staff, and more. These venues also serve as arenas for competitive sports, nurturing young talent.

More than just places to swim, community pools act as gathering spaces for all ages. Parents bring children for lessons, seniors enjoy water aerobics, and teens find jobs as lifeguards. These spaces foster friendships and create connections that help bind communities together.

Community pools offer a wide range of health benefits and can have profound personal impacts. Swimming is known to calm the central nervous system, reduce heart strain, improve circulation, alleviate arthritis symptoms, lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with Type 2 or gestational diabetes, increase insulin sensitivity, and support weight loss or healthy weight maintenance. One notable example is a retired CEO I know, once known for cutting costs on community projects, who became a strong advocate for them after experiencing the therapeutic benefits of a local pool while recovering from a stroke. The health advantages of swimming are truly remarkable.

The aquatics industry doesn’t just build pools; it creates spaces where people find hope, health, connection, and personal growth.

Discover how Landmark Aquatics can help transform your community.