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Town Talk: Recreation Center RENU construction update

With the deep freeze of winter behind us, it’s time to look ahead to the new beginnings of spring and the bustling activity of summer in New Ulm. This is also the case for the Recreation Center remodel and addition project funded by our local ½% sales tax. With construction nearing the half-way mark, the project is showing great progress and creating much excitement.

In early April, the entire facility will close and be completely turned over to the construction contractors to safely complete the remaining work items on the project. This will mark the final push for all the various components of the project, to meet the estimated completion in late summer/early autumn.

With a lot of architectural components visible from a simple drive by at 122 South Garden Street, it’s a good time to review some of the amenities that are included in this remodel and addition project.

The new indoor aquatic center is going to be a swim destination for many surrounding areas. Included will be safe and fun components for all ages and abilities, from toddlers to seniors. Recreational components include one toddler and two large waterslides, NinjaCross course, climbing wall, zip’n line and zero-entry spray features. Therapeutic and exercise components will include a new spa, 6-lane lap pool, water-walking area, bench seat in the water for exercising, and water aerobics areas.

Another significant component of the project is the 3,000 square feet of new wellness space with both strength and cardio equipment. The addition of free weights and functional training equipment expands fitness options. This enlarged fitness space will have additional cardio equipment and new group fitness and spin studios for additional class offerings.

The new indoor playground will be an inclusive activity center for all children! This dedicated space is for the youngest of crawlers and climbers to safely enjoy. It will also include a tower unit with multiple climbing and sliding options, to challenge older children. This rare indoor amenity for our region, will provide year-round activity to advance children’s physical, social and mental developmental needs.

Also, the former swim pool area will become a permanent gymnastics center for all the local and regional gymnastics groups. It will be operated by Turner Gymnastics Academy.

Finally, Vogel Fieldhouse will receive a facelift including new flooring, athletic mesh netting to replace the green vinyl curtains, fresh paint and a new fire suppression sprinkling system. The four racquetball/wallyball courts will continue to be enjoyed by many users.

We hope you share in our excitement and anticipation for the opening of our newly renovated and expanded Recreation Center. Be sure to check it out later this year!

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