Portage Central Natatorium

This new construction, high-end, natatorium project at Portage Central High School establishes the district as a top name in Michigan high school water sports. The 30,818 sf addition to the existing high school building features a large pool with 11 deep lanes for competitive water sports, the latest in timing touch pad technology, and a 350 spectator mezzanine area above new locker rooms.

Construction challenges included the delivery and installation of 103-foot precast T-beams, erected using a 300-ton crane with a 200-foot boom. The beams were delivered via seven individual semi trucks, navigating through an adjacent residential area, and this required extensive coordination with the district and neighbors.

The facility was built on an occupied school campus, meeting a tight construction schedule, and working closely with several specialty contractors and providers.

Completed in 2018, this project was part of a $144 million bond program that included two new middle schools, two new athletic stadiums, two natatoriums, and extensive renovations to an existing middle school. O‑A‑K provided Construction Management services for all projects, with final completion in 2020, alongside architectural partners C2AE and Stantec.