Is an aquatic center in Cumberland County's future?

By Staff Report, posted Jan 8, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com

Cumberland County has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking qualified consulting firms to serve as project manager for a comprehensive feasibility study for a proposed countywide Aquatic Center.

The feasibility study will evaluate community needs, potential facility features, site options, capital and operating costs, long-term financial sustainability and environmental considerations. The goal is to determine whether a future Aquatic Center is feasible, fiscally responsible and aligned with community priorities.

A stakeholder meeting identified several key priorities to guide the study, including:

Competition Features

Olympic-sized competition pool

Diving amenities

Multiple pool types

Seating for more than 2,500 spectators

Stadium seating and integrated technology

Community Features

Multi-use spaces and meeting or event areas

Training and instructional pools

Wellness and fitness classes

Programming accessible to all ages

Accessibility and Practical Features

Full ADA compliance

Ample parking

Convenient transportation access

Food truck access and universal accessibility

Economic Development

Attraction for regional, state and national competitions

Tourism and visitor spending

Revenue generation opportunities

Positive economic impact on surrounding businesses

The County’s long-term goal is to complete a proposed Aquatic Center by May 1, 2029, contingent upon the results of the feasibility study and future funding decisions.

RFP Key Details

The selected consultant will be responsible for conducting the following components of the study:

Community Engagement: Surveys, focus groups and public meetings

Market Analysis: Demographic trends, competitive facilities and demand analysis

Site Analysis: Evaluation of three potential locations

Conceptual Design: A minimum of two conceptual layouts, including amenities such as lap pools, leisure pools, splash pads and therapy pools

Financial Analysis: Capital costs, operating expenses, revenue projections and funding strategies

Implementation Plan: Phased development options and proposed timelines

Deliverables will include a written feasibility report, conceptual site plans, a financial pro forma and presentations to County Commissioners and key stakeholders.

Key Dates

RFP Issued: Dec. 31, 2025

Questions Due: Jan. 30, 2026, by 5 p.m. EST

Proposal Deadline: Feb. 17, 2026, by 5 p.m. EST (electronic submission and five hard copies required)

Interviews: Week of March 2, 2026

Notification of Selection: Week of March 9, 2026

Proposals should be submitted to:

Mr. Clarence Grier, County Manager
Cumberland County Engineering Department
130 Gillespie St., Suite 214
Fayetteville, NC 28301

Questions regarding the RFP may be directed to County Manager Grier via email at cgrier@cumberlandcountync.gov.

To view the full RFP and submit a proposal, visit cumberlandcountync.gov/aquaticcenter.

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