Regional Aquatic Center Open

Lap pool, water slide, and a lazy river.

Las Crucens are ready to beat the heat by splashing into the City?s first indoor Regional Aquatic Center.

Mayor Ken Miyagishima cut the ribbon outside the glass building Friday afternoon.

Crowds of people flooded inside the 35,000 square foot facility for a refreshing glimpse.

“It has a nice age range for little kids and older people,? a Las Cruces resident said. ?I’m especially impressed with the access for handicap.”

Pristine water-filled therapy and recreational pools accommodate up to 200 swimmers at a time.

An enclosed water slide caught the eyes of youngsters.

Residents may feel more than ready into the $13-million Center, but half of it is still under construction.

A second upstairs level will be transformed into an exercise room equipped with weights and a track.

Even before taking a plunge, some say they can already tell the facility was well worth the wait.

“Kids don?t have much to do here, so I think it?ll be great to come here and hang out,? a teenager said.

Prices range from $2 for infants and up to $5 for adults.

“I don?t see us doing it regularly but for a fun time once in a while,? a mother of two said. ?We’re more interested in the swim lessons.”

There are no membership fees and the Center is open to the public seven days a week.