Feb 18, 2024 By Jon Andreassi 2 min read

Peters Township council is moving ahead with scaled back plans for an aquatic center at Rolling Hills Park after rejecting bids last year.

Council voted 3-2 Monday to award the $188,000 contract to the Blue Bell-based Kimmel Bogrette Architecture. The firm will design plans for the first phase of the project, which will include a splash pad, shelters, parking and a structure containing restrooms and a party room. Space will be left for the potential of adding a pool in the future.

Voting in favor were Frank Kosir, Tom Pirosko and Robert Lewis while Frank Arcuri and Gary Stiegel opposed the contract. Council members Allison Shanafelt and Matt Rost were absent from Monday’s meeting.

Kimmel Bogrette estimates the project will cost $5.5 million to $6.4 million. Peters has so far received $3.2 million in matching grant funds.

A year ago, council had budgeted $10 million for an aquatic center that would have also included a pool and lazy river. However, council rejected all bids after the lowest came in at $17.35 million. Township Manager Paul Lauer explained at the time that grants received for the aquatic center could not be repurposed for a different project.

Peters Township revisiting the aquatic center received some pushback from the public. Peters resident Eileen Burkhardt encouraged council to reject the contract.

“I would like to speak on behalf of the residents in Peters Township who oppose the aquatic center, for several reasons,” Burkhardt said. “I can’t get past the fact that 80% of that prime spot there would be a cement slab, used 20% of the year because of the climate, and by 10% of the residents.”

Burkhardt argued that it is a poor use of tax dollars for a seasonal amenity, and will be a continuing expense for the township due to maintenance.

“Spending just to use grant money is financially irresponsible, given the huge cost to taxpayers,” Burkhardt said.