Grand Junction Faces a Big Decision on Orchard Mesa Pool

Grand Junction has been swimming in the Orchard Mesa Pool since 1983. It’s been a summertime staple for decades, but now its future is once again up for debate.

Grand Junction’s 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey asks whether the Orchard Mesa Pool should be kept open with new funding, or should it be closed once the new Community Recreation Center pools open? Your chance to provide feedback is coming soon.

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Why Does Orchard Mesa Pool Need a Decision?

Orchard Mesa Pool Via Grand Junction Parks and Recreation

A city-commissioned assessment issued in 2023 foretold the end of the pool’s mechanical, plumbing, filtration, and electrical systems. Grand Junction must consider repairs or alternative solutions. This is why the 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey is so important this year. The city hopes to achieve a community-wide consensus by offering everyone the opportunity to share their opinion. While the 2026 survey is being mailed now, the online survey will be live soon on the city of Grand Junction website.

The Options on the Table and the Dollars Behind the Debate

Right now, several options are on the table for the Orchard Mesa Pool. They include closing the pool after the new Community Recreation Center opens, seeking a public-private partnership, or creating a special taxing district to help fund future operations. The city estimates Orchard Mesa Pool requires a $400,000 annual subsidy for operations.

Why Many Residents Want to Keep the Pool

Grand Junction Faces a Big Decision on Orchard Mesa Pool — Orchard Mesa Pool Via Grand Junction Parks and Recreation

For decades, the Orchard Mesa Pool has been the place where Grand Junction’s children learn water safety, it’s where seniors can exercise in peace, where neighbors can gather, and where summer memories are made. The upside of the Orchard Mesa Pool is hard to measure in dollars alone. At the same time, more than 1500 memberships have been sold for the new community rec center, scheduled to open later this year.

Do you think the new facility should absorb the activities at Orchard Mesa Pool, or should we leave it as is?

LOOK: Beat the Heat at These Grand Valley Pools and Splash Pads

When Grand Junction temperatures climb into the 90s and triple digits, families start looking for affordable ways to stay cool without leaving town. Fortunately, Grand Valley residents have several options, from the Olympic-sized Lincoln Park-Moyer Pool to the lazy river at the Fruita Community Center and the free splash pad at Dos Rios Park.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: Colorado's Fun Backcountry Swimming Holes & Hot Springs

Get out on the trails and discover Colorado's super fun swimming holes and hot springs. Remember to obey all posted signs and to check water levels and conditions before swimming. All locations are 'swim at your own risk'.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams