SAN MARCOS CISD
School district officials and project partners presented a revised design for the district’s natatorium during a board meeting Tuesday night, highlighting adjustments aimed at keeping the project within budget.
The original schematic design, unveiled months ago, was estimated to exceed the budget by $6 to $7 million. After returning to the drawing board, the updated proposal is closer to financial ex- pectations, with further refinements planned to bridge the remaining gap.
“We’ve worked hard on this project,” Andrew Fernandez, SMCISD chief of communications and technology said. “I think what we have in front of you is something you’ll like. I know we like it a lot.”
Suresh Modadugu, a representative from Stantec, detailed the changes, noting a shift to an openair concept. While the original design included garage doors, they have been omitted for now but could be added later.
“We’re really close to the budget,” Modadugu said. “This design still accommodates all the programmatic needs.”
The facility, located north of the existing high school, will feature a 25yard stretch pool with five warm-up lanes and a movable bulkhead to support water polo. It will also include coaches’ offices, locker rooms, a medical office, storage and mechanical spaces.
The design incorporates a two-level layout with a concourse and bleacher seating for 150 spectators on the upper level, and the pool and support facilities on the lower level. An entry plaza at the higher grade level will create a welcoming public entrance.
Materials were chosen for durability and functionality, with brushed concrete providing slip resistance in wet areas and phenolic lockers designed to resist moisture. Tile and rubber flooring will be used in locker rooms and offices, with neutral finishes accented by pops of color.
Security was a key focus during the presentation. The open-air design will be enclosed by an eightfoot-tall fence, ensuring the area remains secure while maintaining flexibility for future upgrades.
Board members emphasized the importance of safety, particularly given the public use of the facility.
“Pools are notorious for being broken into,” Anne Halsey, San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees president said, “I want to make sure we’re not presenting a challenge to people to try to climb the fence to get into the pool area.”
The board is set to vote on accepting the design development, which will allow the project to move forward to the next phase, where contractors will provide a more precise cost estimate for approval.
The natatorium represents a significant investment in the district’s athletic facilities and a commitment to meeting the needs of students and the community.
