Survey Results
Engaging with Community Perspectives
To ensure our pool project aligns with community needs, the Platteville Aquatic Recreation Sub-Committee (PARS) began by drafting a survey to understand residents’ top priorities for aquatic recreation. The survey was distributed in various ways: included as a flyer in water bills, shared on social media, and displayed in popular local spots like coffee shops and stores.
With 1,431 responses, several community members shared their insights—a fantastic level of engagement that will help guide this project forward.
Demographics
Do you have children under the age of 18 living in your household?
Overall, the data shows that 55% of respondents have children in their household, which points to a significant level of support from families who may see a direct benefit from an aquatic facility, but also strong interest from households without children.
Usage Frequency
How frequently would you or someone in your family use an outdoor aquatic center (pool) in Platteville?
Overall, 89% of respondents (1,162 people) anticipate using the aquatic center at least occasionally, with a substantial portion planning frequent visits, reflecting strong potential engagement with the facility.
Pool Preferences
The former Platteville Family Aquatic Center (outdoor pool near Smith Park) was .
Overall, 96% of respondents familiar with the pool viewed its size as adequate or too small, pointing toward a preference for a facility at least as large as the former one, if not slightly larger to meet community needs.
Please indicate your opinion on the following question: It is important for the Platteville community to have an outdoor aquatic center.
Overall, 92% of respondents (1,221 people) agree to some extent on the importance of an outdoor aquatic center, underscoring broad community support for such an amenity.
Desired Activities and Features
What activities or functions would you or your family participate in or use? Check all that apply.
Overall, while General Recreation and Swim Lessons lead in popularity, there is also solid interest in fitness and specialized activities like lap swimming, water aerobics, and water walking. This diversity in activity preferences suggests a need for a versatile facility that can accommodate both casual users and those with specific fitness or competitive interests.
What types of features would you or your family participate in or use? Check all that apply.
Overall, the results reflect strong interest in diverse features that cater to families, casual swimmers, and those seeking relaxation. The demand for both shallow play areas and deeper recreational zones suggests the need for a facility that accommodates a wide range of activities and age groups.
Water Slide and 3ft to 5ft Recreation stand out at the top of the list, however all listed features gained attention as desires for the aquatic facility.
How important are the following features to you?
Among the responses Zero Depth Entry stands out prominently among other features when ranked by importance. Conversely a separate baby pool was seen as not important . All indicate a preference for a facility that balances accessibility, recreational variety, and family-friendly amenities.
Support for Tax increase
Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statement: I would support paying a tax increase if it means having a new aquatic facility.
Overall, 58% of respondents (528 people) lean towards supporting the tax increase (either somewhat or strongly), while 20% (182 people) are opposed. This suggests a majority of the community is favorable to the proposal, but there is still a notable minority that may have concerns or require more information.