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Mesquite approves $190,000 feasibility study to evaluate new recreation center and systemwide needs
Summary
Council authorized a contract with Barker Rinker Seacat to study a potential South Mesquite recreation center and assess needs across the city; study expected June–October 2025 and will examine funding options and revenue pro formas.
The Mesquite City Council on May 20 authorized a contract, not to exceed $190,000, with Barker Rinker Seacat to perform a recreation center feasibility study and needs assessment for the city.
Elizabeth Harrell, director of parks and recreation, said the study will be a focused follow‑up to the city’s 2022 parks and recreation master plan and will look specifically at recreation center operations, conditions, programs and gaps citywide. Harrell said the study team will include council members, Parks & Recreation Board members, Mesquite Independent School District representatives, staff and community members to gather public input and to determine an appropriate size and program mix for any new center.
"We have heard from the residents that they would like to see it in the South Of Mesquite," Harrell said of the preferred location identified in earlier public feedback; she added that the study will analyze population growth and site options and that amenities under consideration could include an elevated walking track, indoor pool and expanded community rooms. The study will also develop capital‑cost estimates, operating pro formas and potential funding strategies.
Councilmembers said the study’s price tag was reasonable given likely capital needs. Councilmember Kenny Green noted the study cost of $190,000 while observing that a new center could cost tens of millions to build, and he urged careful planning to get the design right.
Harrell said the schedule is aggressive: the city plans to start in June with a target finish by October 2025. The council approved the contract unanimously.
