W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center and Mary Utsey Playground to get major upgrades
by Matt Poust | Contributing Writer
Major improvements are on the horizon at two West Ashley Parks as the City of Charleston begins planning significant renovations to the W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center at Forest Park recreational area and nearby Mary Utsey Playground.
According to Jason Kronsberg, the City of Charleston’s Director of Parks, the renovations planned for W.L. Stephens Aquatic Center mark the first major undertakings funded by the city’s $70 million Parks Bond Referendum, approved by voters in 2023.
Originally built in the mid-1970s, the aquatic center was identified for replacement or reconstruction in a 2021 Parks and Recreation Master Plan, according to Kronsberg. The upcoming renovations aim to fully modernize the aging facility and enhance the user experience for future generations.
“This facility will be built for the future, allowing it to be used for the next 50 to 100 years,” said Kronsberg. “It will feature a structural precast building with state-of-the-art filtration and air quality systems, providing a safe and high-performing environment for all users.”
The newly renovated aquatic center will feature a 25-meter indoor pool, enabling year-round access for lap swimming, swim lessons, training, and community group programs. A separate therapy pool, multipurpose room, locker rooms, and staff offices are also part of the comprehensive design.
The City’s Parks and Recreation Department will manage programming and scheduling for the upgraded facility.
The recreation department is currently in the design phase and is preparing to host community meetings with local stakeholders to share conceptual plans and gather input. Kronsberg stated that the city’s goal is to complete the design and permitting phase by the end of 2026 and finish construction by late 2027.
In addition to the aquatic center, Mary Utsey Playground on Orange Grove Road will undergo a full renovation of its playground equipment. This project is part of the city’s long-term playground equipment replacement initiative, which began in 2012.
While a specific timeline for Mary Utsey’s upgrades has not been finalized, Kronsberg noted that the project is expected to have a shorter lifespan than the aquatic center. Community feedback will be gathered before final decisions are made.
“Anytime we can renovate or provide new parks and programs for our citizens is a time we get really excited about,” said Kronsberg. “This is step one in revisioning our parks and rec programming citywide. Ensuring that every child has a safe and vibrant place to play and recreate is certainly a goal of the city.”
