Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center — Attraction in Charlotte

Very nice, clean and well maintained facility. Got a tour from a staff member who was super friendly. Was impressed. There is an Olympic sized lap pool which is divied up in the evenings for swim team practice, marco polo and swim lessons. The Olympic pool is typically around 79 degrees. The recreational pool is 88 degrees and Tuesday and Thursday evenings they have kayakers practice rolling. There is an adult only hot tub. There is also a workout area with treadmills, bikes, rowing machines, circuit weights, kettle weights, balls, etc. for ages 16+. Next door is the Second Ward High School Gymnasium where the fitness classes are held; members can attend those classes for free. Members can visit the pools anytime the center is open and can use the towel service- free of charge. Mini token lockers are upfront for conveniently for small items like cell phones and car keys. The men's, ladies and family locker rooms have showers, changing areas and toilets. The site offers swim lessons, aquatic exercise classes, and children's summer camp for an additional fee. Non-members can pay the daily rate fee or join membership for a nominal fee. The reason for 4 out of 5 stars is the lack of a kiddie pool, no outdoor pool in the complex and no slide in the recreational pool. However, in my opinion lacking those essentials creates a more relaxing and peaceful swim environment with a serious...

I came to the aquatic center yesterday for my first swim there because the Eastway Rec Center pool is closed for routine maintenance.

Unfortunately, I was met with a gentleman and woman who worked there that greeted me with a question of what was my nationality. The gentleman proceeded to ask me if I had “crinkled hair” under my swim cap. The woman continued on about her swim students with dreadlocks and the importance of swim caps. The conversation continued on with the gentleman’s curiosity of what I was if I wasn’t Spanish. Comments were made on my modest swim suit. I was polite in my responses, but I should have corrected these individuals on how uncomfortable this conversation made me. I was so caught off guard and needed time to process.

On a good note, however, the lifeguards were helpful and the swim was great once I was freed from the above conversation.

I’m reviewing this facility due to feeling that people and organizations need constructive feedback to do better and be held accountable for what occurs in their community.

Crinkled hair and comments like what are you can be deemed offensive. I think it’s important to coach staff on how to not participate or encourage these types of conversations.

My hope is that people of color can for swim without having to feel these types of micro...

I checked their website before traveling there to make sure I was aware of the operating hours and requirements since the pandemic. I walked in scanned my card but was informed that I needed to reregister. I went back to my car to get my ID and Silver Sneakers card because the insurance pay for the services at this location. I provided the young man behind the desk my documents. He informed me that at this time they are not accepting the Silver Sneakers card. I ended up leaving without asking any questions. Later I thought about the customer service, no apology or even some type of concern for my dismay. I checked with Silver Sneakers, they informed me that they weren't aware that this place was not accepting the membership. The agent helped me find another location with a pool that accepts...