SerpApi.Org
Swim Squared, the only public pool in Leadville and Lake County, is running low on funds and may close within months as a nearby wildfire and an unusually warm, dry winter have driven visitors away from the mountain town, said owner Eric Godsman.
"We've been here almost four years," said Godsman, a former Olympic swim coach, noting the business now has enough money to keep operating only until fall.
The decline began last winter, when a lack of snow meant tourists no longer needed to route through Leadville to avoid dangerous mountain roads.
"This last winter they could drive wherever the heck they wanted to because we didn't hardly have any snow," Godsman said. A wildfire burning near town this summer has further discouraged visitors.
Swim Squared offers swim lessons and a current pool for exercise. Godsman said nearly 150 children have learned to swim there.
"We also want the community to come here and swim on their own," he said. Compounding the financial strain, the pool's location off Harrison Avenue, Leadville's main street, has made it hard to attract customers.
"Getting the word out has probably been the hardest part," Godsman said.
To stay open, Godsman has launched a GoFundMe campaign and is hoping a private investor might step in.
"Hopefully this will help get a little bit more of the word out," he said.
