Pre-opening events included remarks from the City Council, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a countdown to open the gates at 10 a.m. The facility reamined open until 6 p.m. Admission was free that day.

A formal dedication ceremony with aquatic sport demonstrations, former Olympians and state officials is being scheduled for the upcoming month.

"Right now, our focus is opening the pool this summer for the community," said San Fernando Mayor Nury Martinez.

Designed with every age and swimming need in mind, the new facility boasts a 50-meter Olympic sized pool, a 25-meter recreation pool and a splash zone.

"The facility was designed so that instruction, team practice and recreational swimming could take place simultaneously," said Martinez. "It will also be the only one in the San Fernando Valley that's large enough and well-equipped to host conference swimming and diving championships."

Also on-site is an architectural icon - a 16,000-square-foot building with locker rooms, classrooms and an all-purpose meeting room.

"When we designed this facility, we wanted to create more than a pool. We wanted a destination. We wanted a gathering place. And we wanted one more thing that the community could be proud of," Martinez said.

The year-round facility cost roughly $14.5 million to construct and will be temporarily operated and staffed by the County of Los Angeles. The city is currently reviewing proposals for a long-term operator.

"Building a state-of-the-art aquatics complex like this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Martinez said. "Opening it on Saturday will not only be monumental - it will again affirm the Council's commitment to providing San Fernando the best in amenities, both now and for future generations to enjoy."

For more information on the facility and its grand opening, please call 818-898-1290 or visit www.sfcity.org/pool.