Jean K Freeman Aquatic Center at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities Campus
Twin City, Minnesota, USA
Project Overview
After more than 30 years of service, we replaced the original moving pool bulkhead we manufactured for the Jean K Freeman Aquatic Center at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities campus in early 2023.
The University reached out to Natare once it was determined the bulkhead needed an upgrade. After a pre-bid meeting and additional discussions, Natare was ultimately awarded the bid to furnish and install a new hybrid bulkhead.
Considered one of the nation’s premier aquatic facilities, the Aquatic Center was constructed in 1990 and is 73,000 square feet with an 8-lane, 50m competition pool, a separate diving well, and can seat 1,350 spectators.
- The moveable bulkhead allows the pool to be configured into multiple racing lengths including 25 yards, 25 meters, and 50 meters.
- This versatility gives the school the capability to host several different competitions and activities, some simultaneously.
The new hybrid bulkhead is constructed of stainless steel and composite materials.
- The interior truss system is made entirely of stainless steel, with the horizontal and vertical exteriors covered in a marine-grade polymer for a slip-resistant surface and complete flow-through capability.
- The bulkhead was built in compliance with the USA Swimming and NCAA Competition and performance standards.
Installation
Installation took place over two cold and snowy days.
The original bulkhead was dismantled along the top and sides in certain areas, but was removed from the facility in one piece.
Once the original was removed, the team carefully brought in the new hybrid bulkhead. When it made its initial “splash down” into the pool, cheers erupted from the swim team as they observed nearby. This goes to show how much the new bulkhead meant to them.
2023 Men’s Swimming & Diving Championships
Weeks after the installation took place, the Aquatic Center hosted the 2023 NCAA Division I Men’s Swimming and Diving Championships.
During the jam-packed multi-day event, numerous records were broken:
- NCAA Records – 8
- Meet Records – 8
- U.S. Open Records – 8
- Pool Records – 11
- American Records – 2
The bulkhead’s lengthy lifespan is a testament to the durability, craftsmanship, and longevity of Natare stainless steel aquatic products.
*Some photos provided by the Jean K Freeman Aquatic Center at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities Campus
