Engineering the Largest Indoor Waterpark in the Northeast
Designing the infrastructure for pumping over a half a million gallons of water.
project details
Client
Camelback Lodge
Location
Tannersville, PA
Services
Industries
The owners of Camelback Lodge envisioned a transformative project that would elevate their resort into a premier year-round destination. With an ambitious plan to construct the Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark, they aimed to create a vibrant hub of family-friendly activities and luxurious accommodations. The project, estimated at $163 million, includes a 453-room hotel and an expansive indoor waterpark, making it the largest of its kind in the eastern United States.
Aquatopia is 125,000 square feet with a transparent roof, 13 slides, a wavepool, a highly themed and partly underground adventure river, multilevel play and spray structures, a toddler area, a simulated surfing experience, nighttime illumination, and food and beverage services including a swim-up bar.
To achieve this vision, the owners recognized the critical role of civil engineering in ensuring the project’s success. They sought expertise to navigate complex site development challenges, including infrastructure improvements and environmental considerations. The goal was not just to build a waterpark but to create an integrated experience that complements Camelback’s existing outdoor attractions, enhancing both guest satisfaction and economic impact in the region.
UTRS Civil Engineering played a pivotal role in bringing Camelback Lodge’s vision to life. As the civil engineering firm on the project, UTRS Civil Engineering was responsible for designing and implementing the infrastructure necessary to support the expansive indoor waterpark and hotel. This included developing a new pump station to handle increased sanitation needs, ensuring efficient water management systems, and overseeing the installation of extensive underground piping. Their expertise ensured that the project not only met but exceeded all regulatory and environmental standards, contributing to the resort’s sustainability and operational efficiency.
The Camelback Lodge project not only enhanced the resort’s appeal but also significantly boosted local employment and economic growth, marking a win-win for all stakeholders involved. The resort is poised to attract visitors from across the Northeast while the expansion created an estimated 1,000 new jobs. USA Today readers voted Aquatopia the “Best Indoor Waterpark in the Country” in both 2019 and 2021.
The successful completion of Camelback Lodge & Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark stands as a testament to UTRS Civil & Environmental Engineering’s prowess. When this UTRS division was still called RKR Hess, the project received the 2015 Project of the Year Award from the Lehigh Valley section of the American Society of Civil Engineers, highlighting our team’s exceptional contribution. This accolade underscores UTRS Civil & Environmental Engineering’s commitment to excellence and innovation in civil engineering, solidifying their reputation as leaders in the field.
Site Development and Preparation
Structural Engineering
Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Transportation Engineering
Utility and other Coordination
Coordinating with Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Safety Engineers, and Construction Management to ensure all of the above services aligned with full team’s budget and timeline execution. Some examples of this project’s complex coordination requirements:
We have the experience to ensure that all civil and environmental elements of your project are properly planned, phased, executed, and approved on schedule and on budget.
