CULLMAN, Ala. – Breaking ground in the fall of 2021 with opening slated for Memorial Day weekend 2022, Nathan Anderson, Director Cullman Parks Recreation and Sports Tourism, is excited for residents to see all the new improvements and additions at the Cullman Wellness and Aquatic Center.
“Over the past year, we have remodeled the walking areas throughout our fitness center by adding new rubberized flooring and turf area, as well as upgraded our strength equipment with state-of-the-art LifeFitness equipment. We have also expanded our team of personal training staff – increasing our knowledge and one-on-one training opportunities including the expansion of our Fit Kidz class for children 5 years and older,” said Anderson. “We are excited to continue the momentum of these renovations into additional areas of the facility – such as our lobby, corridors and childcare areas.”
One of the most anticipated renovations and additions is to WildWater, as CPRST has expanded its footprint to add more options for those visiting the water park.
“We are excited about bringing a regional-sized water park experience to life in Cullman. WildWater will be a safe, fun and high-quality park for our community to enjoy, all while drawing out-of-town visitors from Central and North Alabama,” he said.
Each detail, according to Anderson, “has our community members in mind, from the attractions to the food and beverage offerings. We cannot wait for the community to get out and splash this summer!”
With growth, of course, comes growing pains, something the staff and facility will be prepared for once the newly added attraction opens.
“With the expansions of WildWater, our capacity has nearly tripled. Parking and main gate will be located in a lot right off of Main Avenue. This will alleviate any stress and parking issues from the CWAC parking lot,” said Anderson.
WildWater will be a stand-alone operation – autonomous from CWAC, as a way to keep each of those facilities and identities separate. However, there will be no changes for the swim team or their swim meets with the expansion.
Dianne Evans, WildWater and Aquatics Center director, said since the launch of WildWater in 2009, their current attractions, such as The Torque, Side Swipe, Drift River and the Splash Station, have been staples of the park, and said there’s even more to love.
“WildWater will see the addition of a wave pool, 14 new water slides, an increase in pool deck space and a wider choice of food and beverage options. There will also be more cabanas and party pavilions for large groups and celebrations,” Evans said.
When asked about the approximate cost for these renovations and additions, and how were these changes paid for, Anderson said, “The cost for WildWater is around $11 million and the water park will pay for itself through money generated at the gate and concessions,” he said.
For a little teaser, The Tribune asked what’s next on the list of projects for the parks department?
“We are excited to have plans finalized and underway for a skatepark as well as an eight court, multi-sports and event center,” Anderson said.
With the expansion of WildWater, Anderson said the move is, “pivotal in the success of what will be the newly rebranded mega complex – Heritage Park, Field of Miracles and the Indoor Sports and Event Center. It will bring tremendous value by drawing in youth sports teams and tournaments, further solidifying Cullman as a ‘stay and play’ community for those coming from out of town and out of state. When securing tournament spaces, these types of amenities are what those teams and clubs are looking for.”
Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs is also quite ecstatic about the additions and renovations.
“We are thrilled for WildWater and its expansion to come to life this summer,” Jacobs said. “We are excited to offer this water park and its amenities to our community here in Cullman and solidify our city as a summer fun destination for years to come!”
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