Rec Center expansion finally underway
3 years waiting, 2 years in completion, and $11M over budget
JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — It’s taken nearly three years to get going, and it will take nearly another two to complete, but the ambitious expansion of the Rec Center will officially start making dust next week.
The scheduled 20-month expansion project will build out many of the center’s existing facilities and programs, while adding health and fitness opportunities, an indoor walking and running track, a second gymnasium, and an indoor climbing wall facility. Staff intends to keep the aquatic center and gymnasium open throughout most of the construction but recognize that there may be occasions when the facilities will need to be closed temporarily.
“We are mindful that there may be times that are challenging for both staff and Recreation Center users, but we are trying to mitigate those impacts as much as possible,” said director Steve Ashworth. “We appreciate the public’s enthusiasm for this project, as well as their understanding and patience over the next 20 months.”
Beginning Monday, May 23, the public can expect to see staff moving office locations and contractors moving the front desk to a temporary location. Throughout the construction project, parking will also be impacted at various lots and may require visitors to park on nearby streets or use the Home Ranch located just down the street at 250 N. Cache Street. The public is also encouraged to use the START Bus Town Shuttle or other modes of transportation when possible.
The public will notice immediate changes over the next several weeks as staff, in partnership with One22 and the Jackson Cupboard, work to identify an alternative location for the satellite food pantry that is located at the entrance of the Recreation Center.
“The program and satellite pantry have been a great resource and we are very proud to play a role in a partnership that has such a positive impact on our community,” Ashworth said. “It is our goal to provide a permanent, dedicated space for this program in the new facility.”
On November 5, 2019, voters approved the Rec Center expansion initiative for $22,000,000 as part of the Specific Purpose Excise Tax (SPET). The project has since ballooned in anticipated budget. It has now been identified as costing in excess of $33,670,000.
