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Valparaiso staff outline recreation center program, aim to present contract and GMP at next meeting
Summary
Parks staff described program elements for a proposed recreation center — courts, indoor turf, an interactive play area, an active‑adult area and relocated preschool — and said the AIA contract is with Ton and Blank; a contract with the guaranteed maximum price is expected to be presented at the next Board of Works meeting.
City parks staff provided a progress report on the proposed Valparaiso recreation center, outlining program elements, stakeholder input and a near‑term timeline for procurement.
Kevin (Speaker 8) said a facility development planning session confirmed program spaces recommended through a stakeholder group and vetted by a market analysis and feasibility study. Planned elements listed by staff include hard surface courts, indoor turf with batting cages, an indoor interactive play area/museum, an active‑adult area (rebranding of the former senior center), relocated preschool space, community rental rooms, office space and concessions.
Speaker 8 said the AIA contract moved from parks to the design firm Ton and Blank for review and comment; staff expect to present a contract that includes a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) and a project schedule at the board's next meeting (noted in the transcript as Nov. 26). Staff also said they will present a draft public‑engagement plan (surveys, open houses, stakeholder meetings) and begin work to identify donation and sponsorship opportunities aligned with the project's mission.
Staff emphasized flexibility in design to accommodate changing recreation trends such as pickleball; multipurpose courts and adaptable flooring were highlighted as ways to future‑proof the facility. Kevin encouraged additional tours of the existing facility and noted the project will involve ongoing community engagement.
Next steps: staff plan to return with the contract containing the GMP and schedule; they will also roll out public‑engagement steps and pursue fundraising opportunities.
