Rogers Aquatic Center closes summer with a splash

ROGERS, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — As Labor Day comes to a close, so do the gates of the Rogers Aquatic Center.

The center was packed Monday morning, with families and kids waiting in line to get a lounge chair by the pool.

Wendy Jones is the operations manager for Rogers Parks and Recreation and said this summer meant a lot to the park and that it is giving families a getaway right around the corner.

“We have a lot for all kinds of kids, adults, seniors, and the lazy river is probably one of the most favorite things to do here because people like to get on the innertube and chill and relax. It means a lot to have families here because it’s a time for families and friends to get together and relax and enjoy the water, enjoy the slides because we have something for everyone,” Jones said.

Jones thinks the park means more than just a place to go and have fun for some families.

“With the tornado, the park helped some people relax during a devastating time. I think the tornado literally went right over the top of us. We didn’t have a lot of damage here,” she said. “We were mostly without power, so once we got back open again, we were getting calls and emails constantly. ‘When are you going to open? When are you going to open.’”

The park not only offered relaxation, but it also offered leadership to kids from the lifeguards. Colton Corcoran has been a lifeguard at Rogers Aquatic Center for four years.

Even though the city faced extensive damage, the lifeguards at Rogers Aquatic Center were there to put a smile on families’ and kids’ faces.

“We’re role models and mentors to the little ones coming in and it’s just overall a fun experience to be a lifeguard. We’re here for a reason, and that reason is for enjoyment and being happy and enjoying themselves in the sun,” Corcoran said.

The Rogers Aquatic Center is ready to close its gates in hopes that the next summer can bring more opportunities for the community.

“We’re excited. Not that we’re not ready for rest and some time off, but we are excited. We’re always excited to get the park back open again and we’re going to add some more seating and some more lounge chairs. This is just to make people think their visit here could be a little more comfortable,” Jones said.

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