Design challenges emerge for East Point’s multi‑generational center after floodplain survey

East Point — Consultants from Cooper Carry told the City Council on Nov. 17 that recent surveys of the proposed multi‑generational recreation center site have revealed greater constraints than earlier concept plans indicated. Much of the site sits in a regulated flood hazard area and a gas‑line easement cuts across the property, limiting the buildable footprint and complicating placement of an on‑site pool and full parking.

Sophia of Cooper Carry said the project team received an updated topographic and boundary survey in October that showed the buildable dark‑green area on the site is significantly smaller than prior assumptions. The design team stressed that while open‑air amenities such as sports fields and walking trails can be sited in portions of the floodplain, enclosed structures generally cannot without more complex permitting. The pool, budgeted in the program at roughly 5,000 sq. ft. with a 3,000‑sq. ft. deck plus 2,400 sq. ft. of lockers/restrooms, appears difficult to place without encroaching on constrained areas; architects said they continue to explore options.

Consultants recommended two possible procurement choices: a traditional hard‑bid delivery (complete documents then bid, documents complete Aug. 2026) or a construction‑manager‑at‑risk (CMAR) approach that would allow an early land‑disturbance package and faster ordering of long‑lead equipment; the CMAR would allow earlier site work as soon as a contractor is on board in early 2026. Cooper Carry estimated total program area near 100,000 sq. ft. and confirmed gyms should remain at ground level, while some accessory program elements (studios, admin) could stack above.

Council members pressed for options if the pool proves infeasible on the site; several suggested evaluating alternative locations for a public pool and asked staff to return with trade‑offs. Council also requested details on parking strategies (including shared parking at Georgia Soccer Park) and noted the project’s timing depends on completing the city’s financial audits before any bonding or major financing discussion.

Next steps: The consultant will continue schematic design, refine the program against the confirmed buildable footprint and return with more detailed scenarios for pool location, parking and procurement recommendations. The council asked for the CMAR procurement decision to be considered early next year once audits are in place.