A local indoor recreation facility is now undergoing a giant facelift to be ready for the future.
Upgrades to Anderson’s popular indoor recreational facility, the Anderson Parks RecPlex, began in January, with a completion date not yet announced.
The township-owned facility, purchased last year from Beech Acres with help from the Forest Hills Schools District, is the main park district facility for programs and sports leagues. Built in 1970, the facility has been closed for upgrades since January 6.
Anderson Township leases the facility to the Anderson Park District and does not participate in any day-to-day operations or programming at the site.
Improvements include updated utilities, plumbing, gym air conditioning, painting, an expanded reception area including conference room, upgraded restrooms with handicap accessibility, energy efficient lighting and a new acoustical ceiling.
Anderson Parks Director Ken Kushner said renovations to the facility will create an efficient space that will be more welcoming to residents and a be easier to maintain. For an update on current summer parks programming opportunities, check on AndersonParks.com.
Former Anderson Park Commissioner Josh Gerth now serves as Township Trustee Chair. Years ago, he promised park district leadership that he would work to advance the relationship between the township and park district. “If possible, I said I would try to secure additional resources that could help the Anderson Park District support their mission,” he said.
Many years later the township was able to purchase the building through collaboration with others. Now an “innovative and sustaining funding source for the RecPlex” is in place due to monies made available through Tax Increment Financing , at no added tax burden to the public.
“This project is a wonderful example of how government working together can produce results for the greater good,” Gerth said.
“With a team effort from the parks, township and schools, we are pleased to be updating an important community resource that is the center of many activities year-round,” said Vicky Earhart, township administrator. “Our community and our community’s future will be stronger for this effort.”