Photo courtesy of Stetson University.
The Sandra Stetson Aquatic Center, a new home for the Stetson University intercollegiate rowing teams, has opened at Lake Beresford.
Just seven miles from the University’s downtown campus, this two-story center provides a permanent home for the rowing teams, spaces for water study and research, along with non-
motorized public access to the lake.
Construction on the 10 acre site began in April 2017. Located at 2636 Alhambra Ave, directly across the water from the Lake Beresford Yacht Club, the lake provides a flat water surface ideal for rowing and other water activities.
The new aquatic center was made possible by a $6 million donation from John B. Stetson’s great-granddaughter, in addition to a $400,000 Volusia County ECHO grant (for environmental, culture, historical and outdoor recreation projects).
Outside of the aquatic center, a boardwalk leads to the public areas at the water’s edge – including a pavilion, restrooms and a viewing platform which overlooks the lake.
The facility intends to file for a Green Globe certification which symbolizes the site as an environmentally responsible building. In addition to a 50-year metal roof, designed to resemble a boat, the site includes a botanical garden with native Florida plants and flowers.
