Dr. P. Phillips YMCA unveils renovations of pool, aquatic area

The Dr. P. Phillips YMCA Family Center has unveiled renovations to its pool and aquatic area.

The signature “Red Rocket” slide has been renovated to a new two-story, triple-twist water slide, and the zero-entry pool area has been refurbished with all-new interactive water features.

Photo courtesy of Dr. P. Phillips YMCA Family Center

The renovations, made possible thanks to a $1.8 million grant from Dr. Phillips Charities, were unveiled at a free community event Wednesday, July 10, at the YMCA.

“With water activities providing a welcome relief from Florida’s summer heat, this timely investment will allow our members an entirely new way to cool off and have fun together in a safe place,” Kevin Bolding, president and CEO of YMCA of Central Florida, said. “We are deeply grateful to Dr. Phillips Charities for their generous support and steadfast commitment to enrich communities and keep kids safe in and around water.”

At the event, attendees enjoyed the new water slide and splashed their way into the landing pool, which led to a nature-inspired interactive water feature area. 

Photo courtesy of Dr. P. Phillips YMCA Family Center

Children are encouraged to learn to swim independently so they can earn a green band to go down the slide, since the landing pool has a depth of 5 feet. To earn a green band, a child must be able to swim independently according to the YMCA's swimming levels.

The zero-depth pool area was resurfaced and themed to match the colors and nature-inspired decor of the surrounding outdoor area and the YMCA building. 

This shallow pool area also offers fun aquatic activities for parents and younger children that do not involve being submerged in water, including various interactive water spray and shower features.

“Dr. Phillips Charities has supported the YMCA of Central Florida since 1954 and was proud to help fund the creation of the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA in 1983 as a cornerstone of the Dr. Phillips community,” Ken Robinson, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Charities, said. “We are thrilled to support the renovations of the aquatic's facility, ensuring a safe and enjoyable space for all and to do so in a way that encourages children to learn to swim independently. We look forward to continuing this valued partnership for many years to come.”

For more information on the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA Family Center, click here.

For more information on Dr. Phillips Charities, click here.