In response to questions and concerns shared with the Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Commission and staff in relation to the University/Community Wellness and Recreation Center, we would like to clarify some misinformation and misconceptions.
The members of the Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Commission and staff are very excited about the development of the multiplex building in collaboration with Lincoln University.
Although both Lincoln University and Parks and Recreation have independent goals and missions there are many common interests. This facility's purpose and mission is to serve the common interests of the Jefferson City Community and Lincoln University.
Developing a partnership creates an outcome far better than the sum of its parts. Collaborating with Lincoln University allows us to offer the community greater space, enhanced programming and a connection to resources and energy of a college campus. In short, we intend for this facility to offer something of benefit for everyone.
Our initial objective of providing game court space for already existing programs and for programs yet to be developed will be achieved with this facility. The Parks and Recreation Department will be responsible for programming and scheduling the main floor of the building which includes game courts.
We are already planning several ideas for facility utilization based on comments received from program participants and the community. We encourage all of you to continue helping us plan how to best use your facility.
One of the top requests of the community was to include a walking track in the facility. Although specifics are still being developed, the track will be realized and made available to the community and Lincoln University under various use options.
The goal of the multiplex is to be as inclusive as possible and the community will also have some access to the fitness/wellness center which is being funded by a grant specifically for student wellness facilities and by student activity fees.
Just as Parks and Recreation will be responsible for programming/scheduling the gymnasium and meeting areas, Lincoln University will be responsible for the fitness/wellness area. The prior feasibility study done by Ballard King cautioned the Parks and Recreation Commission about including a fitness/wellness center in the project due to the large number of fitness centers already existing in Jefferson City.
The commission elected not to compete for customers with those service providers and to concentrate efforts on funding the walking track and gymnasium space. Partnering with Lincoln enabled a fitness/wellness center to be included in the design of the building, affording citizens more opportunities for programs and the added benefit of access to more game courts than could be constructed with city funding only.
We are excited to partner with Lincoln University to provide this tremendous structure for current and future Jefferson City area residents.
We look forward to creating a place that instills community pride, embodies a healthy lifestyle and enhances our city's quality of life.
We welcome and encourage you to share any further questions or ideas as we move forward with the construction of this dynamic facility.
We are always available to accept comments by email at [email protected], by calling 573-634-6482, or by attending one of our regular Commission meetings on the second Tuesday of every month.
Moreover, we plan to host an open house in November to share renderings of the facility, programming ideas, and to continue gathering your input on the facility.
Additional, more detailed information is available at our website, www.jeffersoncitymo.gov/parks.
The site is updated frequently with the latest information and answers to frequently asked questions. Please share your comments and ideas there as well.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve.
Signed by the Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Commission: Denise Chapel, president, Brad Bates, vice president, members Marty Miller, Darryl Winegar, Michael Couty, Lindsey Rowden, Chris Wilson, Cindy Layton, Bill Plank, and by Bill Lockwood, department director.