PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — Teaching kids survival skills -- that’s the goal of a huge swimming facility that will soon open in Ponte Vedra.
It’s called Planet Swim and it’s set to open next year on Davis Park Road in between Ponte Vedra High School and Davis Park.
The CEO, Gus Calado, said it was the perfect place to break ground because so many families are moving to the area.
“There’s a lot of kids here that we can tap into and make an impact in drowning prevention which is our mission,” he said.
Planet Swim will feature the first Olympic sized pool in St. Johns County.
The location’s proximity to the ever-growing Nocatee suburb was a big draw.
Interest in this area is so big that even the project’s finance company, North Avenue capital, chose St. Johns County for its headquarters.
“We’re seeing development we’re seeing construction,” said Ben Chatraw, CEO of North Avenue Capital. “We want to focus our resources here.”
Once the facility is up and running it’ll create 28 full-time positions.
“A core aspect of everything we do is job generation,” said Chatraw.
Calado said they’re also teaming up with a nonprofit to reach even more local kids.
“Offer swim lessons to a broader market even for families who cannot afford it,” said Calado.
Planet Swim will also feature swim meets and competitions as well as tennis tournaments.
Aside from the water sports, members can also enjoy seven clay tennis courts and other amenities.
Construction is expected to wrap up by June of 2020.