Centerton unveils schematic design for new community center; officials estimate multi‑phase build and annual operating subsidy

Centerton — City officials and the project team presented the schematic design and program for a new Centerton community center at the Sept. 13 council meeting, showing a two‑story facility with indoor aquatics, a gymnasium, group‑exercise and fitness areas, party rooms, community space and room for future expansion.

Design consultants WER and Crossland Construction described a phased approach: the initial build includes a leisure pool and water play, a gym/court, a fitness mezzanine, community and party rooms, locker/cabana areas and space for administration and child care. The site plan reserves adjacent land for future competition pools, outdoor courts and trail connections as the city grows.

Why it matters: Council members and staff said the center will serve families, seniors and youth and aims to become a civic gathering place. The design team emphasized durable, low‑maintenance materials and a layout that allows future additions without disrupting initial operations. The project team reported more than 600 community survey responses and public forums informed the program.

Operational and schedule details: Ballard King, the center’s operational consultant, provided an early operating analysis. The team estimated Centerton could face an annual operating shortfall “anywhere from $200,000 to $300,000” depending on hours, fees and staffing choices; consultants will refine revenue and expense projections as design advances. Crossland and the design team estimated substantial completion and occupancy in spring 2027 if the city approves a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) later in the year and construction proceeds on schedule.

Facility highlights: The Phase‑1 program includes a 0‑entry leisure/water play area, lap lanes and space for a short slide, deck area for programming and pool guard/first‑aid support; a multi‑use gymnasium built to expand in later phases; a walking track and second‑floor fitness area with views to the main lobby; a community room with veranda that seats about 150 for public events; two dedicated party rooms; and family‑style locker cabanas for families and caregivers. Presenters noted the leisure pool will be warmer for family programming while a future competition pool would be kept at a lower temperature for athletes.

Public safety and storm shelter question: Council members asked whether the building would serve as a formal storm shelter. The design and consulting team said the facility is not an ICC 500‑rated safe room. Staff said the city submitted a FEMA Notice of Interest for a hardened safe‑room grant but that FEMA’s application screening can take many months. Consultants recommended identifying a “best available refuge area” inside the building under FEMA guidance for short‑term sheltering but cautioned that designation is not equivalent to an ICC 500 storm shelter.

Next steps: The design team will continue schematic and design development with Crossland and staff and return to the council in late 2025 with construction cost certainty and a proposed GMP. The team will also refine operations assumptions with Ballard King and discuss user fees, hours and staffing with city staff.

Ending note: Council members praised the collaborative design work and illustrations in the code package; the council scheduled an additional public community engagement meeting for May 29 and expects more public outreach as the design progresses.