Federal Way Aquatic Center Marks 35th Anniversary
The Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center celebrates three and a half decades of hosting elite athletic competitions.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Swimming
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The Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center celebrated its 35th anniversary this week. Federal Way officials also honored center manager Mike Dunwiddie for his 35-year tenure at the facility.
Why it matters
The center stands as a premier regional hub for aquatics, having hosted major events like the 1990 Goodwill Games and Olympic trials. Its ongoing operations continue to anchor the local sports economy and provide essential community programming.
The center generates $7.5 million in annual sales revenue and has facilitated over 1,000,000 swimming lessons since opening. This record stands as a primary benchmark for public aquatic facility performance in the region.
The players
Mike Dunwiddie
He is the long-serving manager of the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center who was recently honored for his 35-year tenure.
King County Parks
This is the administrative department responsible for the ownership and maintenance of the aquatic facility.
The details
Designed to host the 1990 Goodwill Games, the facility features specialized infrastructure including underwater windows, camera wells, and broadcast catwalks. It is managed by the King County Parks department and has hosted significant events ranging from the Special Olympics to NCAA championships.
Timeline
The Goodwill Games were held at the center in 1990.
US Olympic Team dive trials occurred at the facility in 2000.
The center marked its 35th anniversary on October 28, 2026.
An international swimming event is planned for 2027.
Season Trajectory
The center continues to leverage the specialized infrastructure originally commissioned for the 1990 Goodwill Games to attract modern elite competitions. This capability ensures the venue remains a consistent fixture in the national swimming and diving calendar.
The facility's upcoming modernization under the King County Parks levy will likely influence future scheduling and availability for local swim lessons. Residents should monitor for potential closures as upgrades to the center are implemented.
The takeaway
The facility remains a vital economic and athletic engine for Federal Way with over $7.5 million in yearly revenue. Its longevity proves the enduring value of investing in specialized public infrastructure for both community and elite use.
What happens next
An international swimming event is scheduled to take place at the facility in 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local aquatic programming and events in our Federal Way Swimming section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Snoqualmie Valley Record.
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