Old Town Hot Springs Unveils $10 Million Aquatic Renovation for Fall Swim Meet

Steamboat Springs —Old Town Hot Springs is hosting its first-ever USA Swimming-sanctioned competitive swim meet Sept. 26-27.

The Steamboat Fall Invitational brings 200 swimmers to town. They range in age from 6 to 18. Local competitors from the Western Slope League will attend. Teams from the Front Range are also welcome.

Celine Sargis manages the aquatics program and heads the swim team at the facility. She noted that local swimmers train here year-round but have always traveled to compete. Hosting a home meet allows athletes to race in front of family, friends, and the community.

The venue had to undergo significant renovations to meet USA Swimming standards. The project took longer and cost more than originally planned.

Sarah Konopka, marketing director for the property, explained the scope of the work. The aquatic facilities had not been updated since the 1980s before renovations began in the 2000s. The pool’s footprint remained unchanged since the 1960s.

The project split into two phases. Phase One expanded the building and wrapped up in 2019. Phase Two reconstructed the lap pool, starting in October 2023. The facility reopened to the public in May 2025.

The capital campaign launched in 2020. The initial estimate was $6 million, with a summer 2023 completion target.

The final cost reached $10 million. Completion pushed to May 2025 due to two unforeseen setbacks.

First, extensive excavation and demolition work proved necessary for a long-lasting pool structure. This work was unplanned but critical. Second, the pool builder underwent a corporate merger and organizational restructuring. This pause halted construction efforts until resolved.

The renovations included new amenities alongside the pool upgrades. The main building now features a state-of-the-art gym, studios, and a functional training room. An indoor climbing wall, massage suites, and a spin studio are also available. The facility includes an indoor walking track, a family changing room, and a community room.

The pool itself received a new pump house. The lap pool expanded to eight lanes, measuring 25 yards in length and ranging from 4 to 10 feet deep. Diving boards were added. The venue also retains a community pool, a kiddie splash pool, and a hot pool for soaking.

The swim team went on temporary hiatus during the construction. Konopka reported that 150 athletes joined the team after renovations were complete.

This meet marks a return to form for local competitors. They no longer need to leave town to compete at a sanctioned level. The infrastructure is ready. The athletes are present.

The question remains whether the increased cost will impact future programming or membership fees for locals. Konopka and Sargis have not addressed that specific point in their statements.

The event is open to the public. Locals can watch 200 swimmers compete this weekend.