AURORA, Colo. — Built in 1956, right between Lowry and Buckley Air Force bases, the pool at Del Mar Park was used by service personnel. But over the years, the pool went into a bit of disrepair, as each base changed.

In 2008, attendance declined and the costs of keeping it open were out of control. That’s when the city decided to upgrade the area.

“We got a nice grant from Great Outdoors Colorado—money from lottery sales—for about $4.5 million. We added some dollars to that and came up with plans for this nearly $8 million project,” said Lori Daniel, manager for recreation services.

The project includes a diving well, water slide and lap lanes, as well as shaded areas that can be reserved. Oh, and then there is the spray park playground, too.

Neighborhood input helped put the plans together, and judging from reactions of parents the project is making a major splash in “old Aurora.”

“We just think it’s amazing,” said mom Laura Tobey-Davies. “We now have a place to bring our kids that is close by and has all the options that kids love.”

The park complex opened Memorial Day Weekend and when temperatures hit 80 there is a line outside. It costs kids $3.50 and adults $5.00 to get inside. The park is offering swim lessons and team competition as well. Capacity at the pool: around 300.