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Cost: $20 million

What it's for: Upgrades to playing fields and parks, community centers, city pools and gardens, as well as a regional competitive swim center.

Pros: Greensboro is known for its parks and verdant spaces.

Cons: At $12 million, a new swim center seems more a want than a need, especially during an economic downturn.

Out take: Some wondered if City Councilman Mike Barber had bellyflopped off the deep end when he suggested adding a competitive regional swim facility to the Nov. 4 parks and recreation bonds.

A what? And for how much?

In all fairness, a swim center could generate precious revenue for the local economy. In addition, the city's vibrant youth swim community must compete in cramped, outdated facilities and often must practice in other cities.

And why shouldn't Greensboro dare to reach beyond its grasp?

But the project had not even been included on a list of bond items recommended by city staff. Nor was there public input on the center until it already had been placed on the ballot.

And while it is true that a single, 50-meter pool is included in the Parks and Recreation Department's long-range plan for projects, this remains an idea whose time has not yet come.

In 2006, voters rejected a similar bond intended for a new competitive pool center on or near the Greensboro Coliseum grounds. They said no as well to the notion in 2000.

Unfortunately, some other, more reasonable projects are likely to be overshadowed by the swim center: an Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible entrance to Smith Senior Center; renovations to several neighborhood parks; city pool repairs; upgrades to playing fields.

Sad to say, these bonds will float or sink on the merits of the swim center.

Once again, no one is arguing that a competitive swim center wouldn't be a wonderful local amenity. But in the midst of an unsure economy, and when measured against worthier, more urgent bond projects, this one won't hold water.