It’s with sincere disappointment that we share the letter we received from Atlanta Public Schools formally ending the exploration of a community pool on the Field of Dreams.

We are proud of the proposal we put forward—a community-driven vision designed to meet two urgent needs: increasing access to swimming for Atlanta families and expanding aquatic space for APS students. We’re grateful to APS for engaging with us over the past several years to explore what we believed was a rare win–win opportunity for the neighborhood and public education.

Every person behind this project is a parent, a neighbor, and a volunteer. This work came from a place of love—for our schools, for our community, and for the idea that neighbors can come together to solve big challenges creatively.

We wish we had been given the chance to show what this project could have become. While we’re saddened by the outcome, we’re also proud of the framework that’s been built—and hopeful that, someday, it might still be the starting point for something future generations can enjoy.

If APS or the VHCA is ever open to reengaging on this idea, we’re here.

—The Virginia-Highland Pool Association