By EcoBusinessNews Staff
Picture this: a sun-drenched afternoon in Bakersfield, California, where the scent of chlorine mixes with the cheers of excited kids. On October 23, that vision became reality as the East Side Aquatic Center—home to the brand-new B-Town Brazadas Swim Club—officially opened its gates on the campus of Highland High School. What makes this splashy debut truly special? It’s the brainchild of Highland alum and Pacifico Energy Group CEO Nate Franklin, who poured a whopping $13 million of his own funds into creating an affordable aquatic paradise for his hometown.
A Personal Promise Turns into a Community Lifeline
Franklin didn’t just write a check; he fulfilled a decades-old vow. “When I was a student here, I promised myself I would one day give back to this wonderful community,” he shared during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. As a former Highland swimmer, Franklin credits the sport with teaching him resilience, discipline, and the power of hard work—lessons that fueled his rise in the renewable energy world.
Now, through Pacifico Energy Group’s 661 Foundation, he’s ensuring kids from all walks of life get the same shot. The center sits a mere 500 feet from nearby middle and elementary schools, making it a convenient hub for 4,000 students across three campuses. In a city that’s already produced Olympic talents like Gabe Woodward and Larsen Jensen, this facility levels the playing field, offering top-tier training without the need for costly travel.
“We envision the 19 lanes being filled from morning to evening with practices, PE classes, and learn-to-swim programs,” Franklin said. “Swimming taught me you can control your own destiny through hard work and dedication—these are values that last far beyond the pool.”
State-of-the-Art Features That Make Waves
This isn’t your average community pool. The East Side Aquatic Center boasts an Olympic-sized wonder designed for serious athletes and casual splashers alike:
- Versatile Pool Layout: 8 x 50-meter long-course lanes or 19 x 25-yard short-course lanes, heated to a comfy 79-82°F.
- Modern Comforts: Spacious locker rooms, indoor/outdoor showers, on-site offices, and classrooms for coaching sessions.
- Athlete & Fan Perks: Electronic timing, a high-tech scoreboard, shaded seating with giant fans, a shallow end for beginners, and plenty of deck space for dry-land workouts.
It’s built for inclusivity—perfect for everything from toddler lessons to competitive meets—and operated by the Kern High School District in partnership with local swim enthusiasts.
B-Town Brazadas: Four Programs, One Inclusive Mission
At the heart of the center is the B-Town Brazadas Swim Club, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit launched in 2025 to make swimming accessible and fun for everyone. “Brazadas” (Spanish for “strokes”) nods to Bakersfield’s diverse community, emphasizing strokes of progress both in the water and in life.
The club rolls out four tailored programs to suit all ages and skill levels:
- Swim Team – Competitive edge with pro coaching, stroke refinement, and meets from local to national. Ideal for aspiring Olympians. Sign up here.
- Swim League – Low-pressure seasonal fun, skill-building, and friendly races. All about joy and participation. Sign up here.
- Swim School – Certified lessons for ages 6 months to 18, focusing on safety, technique, and confidence in small classes. Sign up here.
- Masters – Adults reclaim the water with supportive training, whether you’re a newbie or a veteran. Sign up here.
By prioritizing underserved youth, Brazadas isn’t just building swimmers—it’s fostering camaraderie, pride, and lifelong wellness in a region where opportunities like this were once scarce.
The Bigger Picture: Energy Meets Empathy
Pacifico Energy Group, a global player in infrastructure and renewables, channels profits through the 661 Foundation into projects that blend business savvy with social good. From solar farms in Asia to community plazas in California, their ethos is impact-driven. This aquatic center joins recent wins like a San Juan Capistrano public plaza and Little League upgrades—proof that clean energy can power more than grids; it can power dreams.
As Bakersfield dives into this new era, Franklin’s gift reminds us that true sustainability isn’t just environmental—it’s about investing in people. Whether you’re a parent signing up a toddler, a teen chasing records, or an adult rediscovering the freestyle, the East Side Aquatic Center is open and ready. Jump in—the water’s fine, and the future looks even brighter.
For more on Pacifico Energy Group, visit pacificogroup.com. Learn about the 661 Foundation at 661foundation.org, and explore B-Town Brazadas at brazadas.org. Media inquiries: media@pacificoenergy.com.
EcoBusinessNews.com celebrates stories where innovation, philanthropy, and community intersect. Stay tuned for more on sustainable impact.
