After reviewing 37 applications from across the country, Christiansburg has a director for its new aquatic center, which is targeted to open Jan. 1.

Terry Caldwell will assume the position of aquatic center director, Town Manager Lance Terpenny said Tuesday.

Caldwell currently serves as the special events and aquatics supervisor for Montgomery County's parks and recreation department.

The process of filling Christiansburg's position began in March, with Terpenny advertising nationally for the opening.

"We put some ads in publications that people in the aquatic industry would read," Terpenny said.

Caldwell's first order of business will be to organize a business plan including staffing needs, employee salaries, operational costs, chemical needs, fee schedules for facility rental, and membership and marketing plans, he said.

The center will serve the aquatic needs of both the community and competitive athletes. Not only will the facilities be equipped for children's birthday parties and group outings, the center will also be able to facilitate things such as water polo matches and will contain areas for scuba training and certification.

There are also plans for the facility to host the Virginia Independent High School Conference's championship meet and the New River Valley triathlon in 2009.

-- Lerone Graham