Constructed in 1935, the public pool in Washington, Mo., has evolved into a beloved landmark through decades of transformation. In 1983, it became the largest stainless steel pool in the U.S., a point of local pride. Then, in 2020, the city prepared to replace this iconic pool, but COVID-19 briefly halted those plans. Yet, thanks to the expertise of Landmark Aquatic, Washington managed to keep the project moving forward.
Wayne Dunker, Director of Washington Parks and Recreation, explains the pandemic unexpectedly accelerated the city’s renovation timeline. “With the pool closed that year, we were able to start demolition about six months earlier than expected,” Dunker says. “We’re far enough from St. Louis, and being in a rural county that wasn’t fully shut down, we were able to work outside and continue building during 2020 and 2021 without losing any significant time.”
This momentum was largely due to the city’s partnership with Landmark Aquatic. “They helped us stay on budget and within our timeline,” Dunker notes, emphasizing how Landmark Aquatic’s CEO, J. Ryan Casserly, played a critical role in finding cost-effective solutions. For instance, when crews discovered a large rock from the original 1935 pool buried beneath the stainless steel shell, Landmark Aquatic’s team worked with the city to resolve the issue affordably. “They thought outside the box and made sure we only paid for essentials, like an excavator operator. That’s the kind of partner Landmark Aquatic has been,” Dunker says.
Over time, the collaboration between Washington’s parks department and Landmark Aquatic has grown into a trusted partnership. Beyond the pool’s construction, Landmark Aquatic continues to manage essential seasonal services, including winterization, spring openings, and providing the facility’s chemical needs. Their commitment to Washington goes well beyond a single project, underscoring a long-term partnership.
The future holds more exciting developments for the community. In the upcoming fiscal year, the city plans to install a large Splashtacular flume slide, with Landmark Aquatic handling the logistics. Notably, the slide tower was designed for future expansion. “The tower can support two slides, and even the catch pool is large enough for both,” Dunker explains.
Quick thinking by Landmark Aquatic also ensured the slide project remained on budget. Initially, Dunker feared they had missed the chance to include the new slide in the 2025 budget. “But Ryan called and said, ‘I have an option—if you commit by September 30, we can get the slide manufactured and installed,’” Dunker recalls. “We took the opportunity, and it worked out perfectly.”
The new aquatic facility represents more than recreation — it’s a cornerstone of community pride. Located near the historic city auditorium and surrounded by key park features, the pool is part of a broader vision. Even the old pool house will soon be transformed into park offices, further integrating this facility into the city’s landscape.
What began as a pandemic-era disruption ultimately became a success story of municipal innovation and partnership. The Washington pool project showcases how collaboration and flexibility can turn challenges into opportunities. For other municipalities considering similar undertakings, the Washington experience with Landmark Aquatic provides a compelling example of how a dedicated partner can help communities achieve ambitious goals while staying mindful of budgets and timelines.
