Northport Council Prez Solicits Names For Proposed Water Park

NORTHPORT, AL — A new aquatic center proposed for the City of Northport may still have many hurdles ahead, but that isn't stopping some from dreaming and planning for the future.

On Monday, Northport Council President Jeff Hogg took to Facebook to ask residents for suggestions on a name for the proposed water park. Hogg has been the most vocal supporter of the proposed aquatic center, citing not only the potential economic impact, but the public's desire for more family-friendly entertainment options in Northport.

Do you have a suggestion for the name of the water park? Email ideas to ryan.phillips@patch.com with the subject line "water park name."

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Hogg told Patch on Monday that over the past year, the topic of a water park has grown from an idea to a reality. He also said city officials have received a great deal of positive feedback after a recently-conducted feasibility study underscored the demand for a new amenity like an aquatic center.

"Since this was originally my idea, I have had a piece of land in mind for quite some time and soon will be presenting to the Council and Mayor for their determination," he said. "As we get closer to land acquisition, which is the first phase, I want the citizens who want this to have just as much fun as we are, by helping us come up with a catchy name. This is going to be something that puts Northport on the map."

Patch previously reported on the results of a feasibility study presented in March, which also included a study for a potential sports tournament facility.

ALSO READ: Northport Water Park, Sports Complex Study Results: What To Know

Here's a quick rundown of what the aquatic center study found ...

• Market research found the necessary demand to support a 5.5- to 8-acre outdoor water park, with a capacity of 500 people at one time.
• The park could expect 1,200-1,500 visitors per day during peak summer months, which consultants said would justify the incorporation of a 7,500-square-foot leisure pool with built-in amenities for a range of ages.
• Consultants suggested a 3,500-square-foot lazy river to help keep visitors at the park longer.
• The firm expects 50,000 annual visits on admissions, plus another 1,700 for swim lesson visits over a period of 85-95 days (from Memorial Day to Labor Day).

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