CARD Secures $6 Million Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant to Transform Aquatics Experience

December 7, 2023

May contain: pool, water, swimming pool, outdoors, architecture, building, and amusement park — Render of the future Aquatics & Recreation Center

CHICO, DECEMBER 7, 2023 — The Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD) is thrilled to announce the acquisition of a monumental $6 million grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to propel the development of their future Aquatics & Recreation Center. This prestigious grant, bestowed by the California State Parks and National Parks Service, was awarded to 16 local park projects last week. The LWCF, a cornerstone grant program since 1965, champions the creation of outdoor recreation by granting financial support to cities, counties, eligible districts, and state agencies.

CARD General Manager, Annabel Grimm, expressed her excitement in sharing this significant news with the Chico community.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the California State Parks and the National Parks Service for their unwavering support and confidence in the significance of this transformative project,” said Grimm. “This LWCF grant not only marks a pivotal step towards realizing our vision for an unparalleled aquatic park but also symbolizes a substantial contribution to the overall enhancement of recreational opportunities in our region.”

This substantial grant marks a significant milestone in the realization of CARD's vision for a cutting-edge facility that will serve as a cornerstone for community wellness, recreation, and aquatic activities in the Chico area. The center is poised to become a hub for residents of all ages, fostering a sense of community and promoting an active lifestyle. The facility will boast a new competition pool, a wading pool featuring water slides and play equipment, expansive pool decks, luxurious cabanas, shade sails, ample parking, secure fencing, landscaping, and park lighting.

CARD Board Director, Tom Lando, echoed the excitement, emphasizing the far-reaching impact on the Chico community and the entire Butte County area.

“This grant represents a tremendous investment in the well-being of our community, and it brings us one step closer to providing a world-class facility that will benefit the residents of the entire Butte County region for generations to come," said Lando.

Anticipation is building for the grand opening of the CARD Aquatics & Recreation Center in the fall of 2025, promising a new era of recreational excellence.

Stay tuned for updates, sneak peeks, and an exclusive look into the journey of bringing this new Aquatics & Recreation Center. Follow CARD on Facebook and Instagram to be part of this exciting venture.

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About Chico Area Recreation & Park District

Founded in 1948, the Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD) is a California Special District focused on creating recreational opportunities that bring friends and families together to have fun and build lasting memories. CARD manages and cares for more than 12 community and neighborhood parks, four community centers, one swimming pool, the Chico Creek Nature Center, and other facilities. The PLAY Activity Guide highlights the numerous sports, classes, camps, special events, and more CARD offers. Learn more about CARD at http://www.chicorec.gov/.

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