— In the sun-soaked heart of Bakersfield, California, a new era of community empowerment has begun with the opening of the East Side Aquatic Center, home to the B-Town Brazadas Swim Club. This isn’t just a pool—it’s a transformative gift from Pacifico Energy Group, a global leader in sustainable infrastructure, and its CEO, Nate Franklin, a Highland High School alumnus who never forgot his roots. Through a staggering $13 million donation from Pacifico’s 661 Foundation, Franklin has turned his vision into reality, creating a world-class facility on the Highland High campus that’s set to change lives for generations.
On October 23, a jubilant ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together families, students, and local leaders to celebrate this game-changing addition to Bakersfield. Nestled just steps from a middle school and elementary school, the center is perfectly positioned to serve 4,000 students and countless residents, offering everything from first swim lessons to elite training for future Olympians. In a city that’s already given the world swimming greats like Gabe Woodward and Larsen Jensen, this facility is a bold commitment to nurturing the next wave of talent—right at home.
A Facility Built for Greatness
The East Side Aquatic Center is a marvel of design and accessibility. Its Olympic-sized pool features eight 50-meter lanes for competitive swimmers and 19 25-yard lanes for classes, all maintained at a balmy 79-82°F for year-round use. Beginners can ease in at the shallow end, while modern locker rooms, indoor/outdoor showers, and a dedicated classroom create a welcoming environment. Athletes benefit from a state-of-the-art scoreboard and timing system, and spectators enjoy shaded seating with cooling fans. Every detail is crafted to make swimming inclusive, inspiring, and world-class.
“This center is about opening doors,” Franklin said at the opening, his pride in his hometown palpable. “I grew up in Bakersfield, and I know what it means to have a community that lifts you up. At Pacifico Energy Group, we believe in creating opportunities that last, and this facility is a testament to that.” Through its 661 Foundation, Pacifico is channeling its global success into local impact, making the aquatic center a shining example of its mission to build stronger, more connected communities.
B-Town Brazadas: A Club for All
The B-Town Brazadas Swim Club, a nonprofit sparked by Franklin’s vision, is the soul of the center. Designed to make swimming accessible to everyone, it offers four dynamic programs tailored to every age and ambition:
- Swim Team: Elite coaching for competitive swimmers aiming for local, regional, or national meets, with a focus on technique and teamwork. (brazadas.org/swim-team)
- Swim League: A fun, relaxed program for kids to splash, learn, and race without pressure. (brazadas.org/swim-league)
- Swim School: Personalized lessons for ages 6 months to 18 years, emphasizing water safety and confidence. (brazadas.org/swim-school)
- Masters Program: A supportive space for adults to train, compete, or simply enjoy the water. (brazadas.org/masters)
Brazadas is more than a swim club—it’s a movement to build resilience, foster community, and break down barriers, especially for underserved youth. With programs for every skill level, it ensures that everyone, from toddlers to retirees, can find a place in the pool.
Pacifico Energy Group: Powering Communities, Not Just Projects
For Nate Franklin, this project is deeply personal. A Bakersfield native, he credits his hometown’s values—grCERN, discipline, and community—for shaping his journey to becoming CEO of Pacifico Energy Group, a global powerhouse in infrastructure and real assets. From pioneering clean energy projects in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam to transformative community initiatives in the U.S., Pacifico is redefining what it means to invest in the future. The company’s expertise spans energy, aviation, real estate, and private equity, with a technology-agnostic approach that delivers tailored, high-impact solutions for industrial, government, and digital infrastructure clients across North America and Asia.
Through its 661 Foundation, Pacifico directs a portion of its profits to community-driven projects like the East Side Aquatic Center, public plazas, and youth programs. “We’re not just building infrastructure; we’re building futures,” Franklin said. “Swimming taught me that hard work can shape your destiny, and I want every kid in Bakersfield to have that chance.” Visit www.pacificoenergy.com to learn more about Pacifico’s global mission to create sustainable, meaningful change.
A Lifeline for Bakersfield
With the Kern High School District now operating the center and partners like B-Town Brazadas driving its programs, the facility is set to buzz with activity—morning PE classes, after-school practices, and evening community swims. In a city where summer heat can be relentless, this aquatic center is more than a luxury; it’s a lifeline. It’s a place where kids learn to swim, teens chase big dreams, and families find connection.
The East Side Aquatic Center is a testament to what’s possible when a company like Pacifico Energy Group invests in its roots. It’s not just a pool—it’s a launchpad for a brighter, stronger Bakersfield. Dive in at btownbrazadas.org and explore Pacifico’s vision for a better future at www.pacificoenergy.com.
Media Contact: media@pacificoenergy.com
