The Opus Group® Announces Completion of New Aquatic Center at Luther College

7/9/2013
DES MOINES, Iowa (July 09, 2013) - The Opus Group announced today the completion of construction on a new 17,800-square-foot aquatic center at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.

The new center houses an eight lane, 25-yard competition pool and a 13-foot deep diving well with 1 and 3 meter springboards. The pool uses Myrtha technology with a panelized, stainless steel structure, PVC waterproofing and ceramic tile finishes.

“It was a pleasure to work with Luther College again and create another space for the institution that will serve both the college and community,” said Jeff Smith, director of project management, Opus Design Build, L.L.C. “Luther’s vision was for a facility that could be used for a variety of activities including athletics, physical education and fitness and wellness programs, and this space does just that.”

Features of the new modern facility include a state-of-the-art timing system, a large LED score board, space for 280 spectators and an advanced water filtration system. The diving pool is equipped with a soft water landing system, which can be turned on to provide divers a softer landing during practice.

The aquatic center pool also includes a new shallow area which will be used for swim lessons and classes such as water aerobics. The new building is an addition to the Regent’s Center which houses a gymnasium, fitness center, field house and new multi-use court, which replaced the previous pool.

“This facility will be a great boost for our nationally-ranked swimming and diving programs,” said Diane Tacke, vice president for finance and administration at Luther College. "Opus was the perfect partner for this project. They designed an aesthetically pleasing, state-of-the-art facility within our budget. We couldn't have been more pleased with the result."

The competition pool will be named the David E.G. and Patricia Miller Natatorium in honor of two Luther College alumni.

Construction of the aquatic center began in September 2012 and was completed in June 2013. Opus Design Build, L.L.C. served as the design-builder on this project and Opus AE Group, L.L.C. served as the architect and structural engineer.

About The Opus Group
The Opus Group® is a family of national commercial real estate companies headquartered in Minneapolis, with expertise in development, project management and construction, architecture and engineering, finance, sales and leasing. The Opus Group includes Opus Holding, L.L.C. and its operating subsidiaries; Opus Development Company, L.L.C., Opus Design Build, L.L.C. and Opus AE Group, L.L.C. Specializing in office, industrial, retail, residential living, institutional and government projects, The Opus Group has broad capabilities, deep experience and a proven design-build model that delivers solutions for customers on time and on budget. For more information, visit www.opus-group.com.