The $5.9 Million Question: What’s The Current Status Of The Osborn Aquatic Center In Corvallis, Oregon?
The Osborn Aquatic Center in Corvallis, Oregon, is a vital community hub, but as of December 21, 2025, it remains in a critical state of transition following a significant closure. The facility, jointly operated by the City of Corvallis and the Corvallis School District, is currently undergoing a massive assessment and fundraising effort to address structural issues that have kept the indoor pools closed, leaving a noticeable gap in local recreational and competitive swimming options. The latest reports confirm that the path to a full reopening involves a multi-million dollar repair project and a detailed construction timeline stretching into the near future.
This article provides the most current and detailed information on the center's status, the financial hurdles being cleared, the ambitious construction schedule, and how residents can still access modified aquatic programming in the interim. The community is rallying to restore this essential facility, which serves everyone from competitive swimmers and high school teams to families seeking recreational fun.
Osborn Aquatic Center: The Latest Updates and Reopening Timeline
The Corvallis community's favorite aquatic destination, the Osborn Aquatic Center, has faced significant challenges since its initial closure in October 2024. The closure was triggered by the need for a comprehensive technical evaluation, which ultimately revealed structural deficiencies, particularly concerning the roof and the indoor natatorium. This section breaks down the most recent developments as of late 2025 and the planned steps for its return to full operation.
The facility is owned by the Corvallis School District and operated in partnership with the City of Corvallis Parks and Recreation Department. This joint operation model is key to the ongoing efforts to secure funding and manage the complex renovation project. The closure has deeply impacted local aquatic programming, including swim lessons, exercise classes, and training for local swim teams.
The $5.9 Million Repair Mandate
A comprehensive facility condition assessment was delivered in May 2025, providing a stark but necessary look at the center's immediate needs. The report concluded that approximately $5.9 million is required for immediate, critical repairs to safely reopen the indoor natatorium.
This substantial figure covers essential structural fixes, including the roof, along with other necessary infrastructure improvements. The Corvallis School District and the City of Corvallis have been actively sharing these findings and seeking community input through informational meetings to plan the long-term functionality of the center.
Critical Financial Support and Community Rallying
The community and local government have stepped up to support the reopening efforts. A significant boost came from Benton County, which approved a $100,000 grant to the Corvallis School District to support the planned improvements.
This grant, approved by the Board of Commissioners, highlights the recognition of the Osborn Aquatic Center's role as a vital regional asset. The fundraising and grant pursuit are ongoing, as the $5.9 million goal requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. Swimmers and local residents are keenly following the progress, understanding that the future of the center depends on successfully securing the necessary funds.
Projected Construction and Reopening Schedule (2025–2026)
The planning phase is highly detailed, with specific milestones set for the coming months. The latest updates from the City of Corvallis and the School District outline a clear, albeit ambitious, timeline for the renovation project. This schedule is subject to change based on funding and unforeseen construction issues, but it represents the current best-case scenario for the facility's return.
- Facility Assessment Completion: The comprehensive facility condition assessment report was completed in May 2025.
- Final Bid Package Development: From November 2025 to March 2026, the project team (including DLR Group) will work with the City and School District staff to finalize the bid package for construction.
- Goal for Construction Start: The primary objective is to begin construction on the critical repairs in early 2026, following the finalization of the bid package.
- Community Updates: Regular updates, such as the one posted on December 16, 2025, keep the public informed on the progress of the assessment and planning stages.
This timeline means that a full reopening of the indoor pools will likely not occur until late 2026 or early 2027, depending on the scope and duration of the construction work. The community remains hopeful that the process will move forward swiftly once the funding is fully secured.
Modified Programming and What's Currently Open
Despite the closure of the indoor natatorium, the Osborn Aquatic Center is not completely dormant. The facility is a large complex, and the City of Corvallis Parks and Recreation Department has worked diligently to maintain modified programming, primarily utilizing the outdoor pool areas.
The center is known for its extensive offerings, which typically include four different swimming pools: the main indoor pool, a leisure pool, a therapy pool, and the popular outdoor recreation area, Otter Beach. While the indoor pools are closed, access to outdoor pools and select indoor areas has been made available for specific activities.
Current Available Aquatic Activities
Swimmers can still utilize the facility with a modified schedule focusing on the outdoor amenities, especially during the warmer months and with proper weather permitting. Programs currently offered or scheduled include:
- Lap Swimming: Modified hours are available for lap swimming, utilizing the available outdoor lanes. Schedules vary, with typical morning slots (e.g., 5:30 am - 10:00 am) and afternoon hours.
- Open Recreation: Limited open recreation times are scheduled for general public use.
- Toddler Time: Specific times are set aside for parents and young children.
- Swimming Lessons: The center is the hub for the Otter Swim School, and lessons are being offered with a modified schedule to accommodate the limited space.
- Exercise Classes: Select exercise classes and water fitness programs may be available in the accessible areas.
It is essential for residents to check the official City of Corvallis Parks & Recreation website for the most up-to-date hours of operation, pool schedules, and any upcoming closures, as the status is dynamic and subject to change based on conditions and ongoing assessment work. The Corvallis Community Center, another Parks & Recreation facility, operates on a regular schedule and can provide additional information.
The Osborn Aquatic Center remains a cornerstone of the Corvallis community, and its eventual full reopening is eagerly anticipated. The collaborative effort between the City, the School District, Benton County, and the residents underscores the facility’s importance as a premier regional aquatic facility for fitness, recreation, and competitive sports.
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