An old Macy's store turned aquatic center pumps millions into Henrico County
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For several years, the old Macy's sales floor at Regency Square Mall in Henrico County has churned out Olympic trial competitors. Home of the NOVA of Virginia Aquatics facility since 2021, Henrico is banking on the success of NOVA and the sports tourism dollars the facility is expected to draw with a multi-million dollar expansion.
Phase two construction of the aquatics center will begin soon with a $2.5 million investment from the county over five years and $1 million investment from NOVA. The expanded capacity of the facility will mean mezzanine seating above the pool with seating for up to 1,000 people.
The new layout will mean the NOVA facility could host state, regional, and national swim meets since parents and fans are not allowed to sit poolside during those competitions.
"The economic impact of NOVA’s facility is estimated at around $2.8 million per year [right now]. By adding the mezzanine seating and attracting state, regional and national meets, its impact is projected to explode to more than $20 million per year," said Jody Rogish, who represents the Tuckahoe District on the Henrico Board of Supervisors.
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