Buchanan Recreation Center boasts a 14-foot climbing wall, a swimming pool with a 2-story slide and fishing ponds. But in a 2013 community survey, Evergreen Park and Recreation District’s residents said they want more, so the district hired a consulting firm to study the specific desires of the community and what it would cost.
“We’re trying to make sure our public is well aware that their input is needed now,” said .
So far, according to , the firm hired for the feasibility study, residents have said they want added amenities such as an indoor gymnasium, a turfed field house, expanded pool features, more pool lap lanes and fitness areas, an indoor walking and jogging track and expanded fitness space and equipment.
Sink Combs Dethlefs estimates that adding all of these amenities would expand the center to 38,400 square feet at a cost of $11,350,000.
But how much of that dream expansion actually happens depends entirely on community input and, in the end, approval of a tax increase.
“I will tell you, it’s been a challenge,” said Peter Lindquist, president of the district board. “It’s really hard to get people out to these meetings.”
He refers to community input meetings hosted this summer and fall. So far, between those and suvey cards at the center, around 400 district residents have given input. The current survey asks which amenities residents want the most and provides an estimated price tag for each one, based on property taxes paid on a $500,000 home.
For example, on the high end, an indoor gymnasium would mean a $30 annual tax increase. An outdoor splash pad and hot tub area is on the list for $7.
Early surveying showed highest priority for the indoor walking and jogging track, and almost as much for additional lap and fitness space in the pool. Next on the list is a new, larger fitness center, which O’Connor said makes sense because, at peak times, the center’s existing equipment and space is often at full capacity.
“Some members have left because they can’t get on the machines,” she said.
Architects and consultants Sink Combs Dethlefs presented the findings of their feasibility study at the Evergreen Park and Recreation board meeting. It will continue to gather input through late November or early December, Lindquist said.
The next steps in the process include as much feedback as possible before drafting a final feasibility study .
Josie Klemaier: 303-954-2465, jklemaier@denverpost.com or twitter.com/JosieKlemaier
Buchanan rec center expansionSee preliminary plans for an expanded Buchanan Recreation Center at . Take a survey at
