By 1812Blockhouse
After years without a municipal swimming facility, the City of Mansfield is taking a measured step toward bringing one back—starting not with construction, but with questions.
City officials have launched a public survey as part of a broader feasibility study to evaluate whether Mansfield should build a new public pool, and if so, what it should look like, how it would operate, and who it would serve.
A Data-Driven Approach to a Community Asset
The city has retained Counsilman-Hunsaker, a nationally recognized aquatics consulting firm, to lead the study. Their work will move through several structured phases designed to produce a clear, realistic roadmap.
Needs Assessment
- Evaluate existing aquatic providers in the region
- Analyze local demographics
- Identify user groups and demand
- Explore potential community partnerships
- Conduct site analysis
Facility Program and Space Requirements
- Develop schematic design options
- Outline programming possibilities
- Estimate project costs
- Confirm partnership opportunities
Operations and Business Planning
- Identify revenue streams
- Estimate operating expenses
- Project annual cash flow
The goal is not simply to determine whether a pool is desirable, but whether it is sustainable.
Public Input Takes Center Stage
That process is now shifting into its most visible phase: community engagement. A public open house held Monday, March 30 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at North Lake Park’s pavilion invited residents to learn about the study, ask questions, and weigh in on potential directions.
Earlier that day, consultants met with a range of local stakeholders, including youth representatives, educators, and neighborhood leaders, ensuring that feedback reflects a broad cross-section of the community.
For those unable to attend, the city is emphasizing that participation remains open. Residents are encouraged to complete the online survey or contact the Mansfield City Parks Office directly with comments and questions.
A Gap Years in the Making
Mansfield has not had a city-operated public pool since the closure of the Liberty Park facility, a loss attributed to rising operational costs and code compliance challenges. That absence has left a noticeable gap in summer recreation, particularly for families and youth. City leaders are framing the current effort as part of a larger reinvestment in parks and public spaces—one that prioritizes long-term viability over quick fixes.
What Comes Next
The feasibility study will ultimately deliver a set of options, each grounded in financial projections, community demand, and operational realities. Only after that work is complete will decisions about construction move forward.
For now, the most important variable is public input. Residents can complete the survey here:
https://engage.counsilmanhunsaker.com/mansfield-ohio-aquatics-study
The outcome of this process will help determine not just whether Mansfield builds a new pool, but what role it will play in the city’s future.
