Rock Springs parks leaders showcase repurposed facilities, safety upgrades and community programs

On a city-produced episode of “How Rock Springs Works,” Parks and Recreation leaders gave a guided tour of the Rock Springs Civic Center, describing recent facility conversions, safety upgrades and the department’s programming approach.

JJ Seabrood, director of Parks and Recreation, said the department treats facilities and programs as an "ecosystem," connecting green spaces, the civic center and partner organizations to increase access and keep services running despite staffing constraints. "I consider parks and rec as an ecosystem," he said.

Tour stops included the gym courts, which staff say were originally laid out for racquetball but have been adapted over time: several courts have been converted into a free‑weight area, a stretching room, an MMA training space and a children’s play area, while other courts now host pickleball, youth basketball and volleyball leagues. Staff noted these changes reflect shifting public demand and a strategy favoring adaptable, multiuse spaces rather than single‑purpose courts.

At the aquatic…