Jefferson City and Lincoln University officials are mutually anxious to announce the opening of their new University Wellness and Parks Multipurpose Center.
Parks Commission members, in their January meeting Tuesday at the City Annex, couldn't get so much as a hint of the big date from Director Todd Spalding or Vice Chairwoman Denise Chapel, who is on the committee planning the opening.
Parks leaders have been saying for many months the opening would occur on or about Jan. 30. A joint Parks-Lincoln committee is planning the opening.
Lincoln University President Kevin Rome one-upped the Parks folks in his latest newsletter, released Wednesday, in which he said, "We anticipate a soft opening of the facility in mid-February. Please stay tuned for more specific information regarding the official opening date via (the Lincoln website)."
On Wednesday, Chapel said of Rome's statement, "His comments fall in line with our comments from previous meetings in which we indicate that the doors will be open and accessible to the public/students and then we will have a grand opening event in spring with timing that is mutually beneficial and gives the optimal exposure to this fantastic facility."
Rome's newsletter also stated, "The Wellness Center is progressing as expected and is anticipated to be occupied by Lincoln University staff and Jefferson City Parks and Recreation staff later this month. We want to especially thank the Lincoln University community for supporting this endeavor.
"The center will provide much-needed access to the equipment, education and programs our students deserve and have requested for many years," Rome said.
The three-level, 79,808-square-foot facility also will be the site of the university's 15th annual President's Gala on April 22, Rome announced. Parks and Lincoln inked their development and partnership agreement Feb. 10, 2015.
Spalding reported to the Parks Commission on Tuesday the Wellness Center contract, including the latest change orders, was at $12.113 million. The parties already have paid for $7.775 million in services with $4.337 million in the accounts payable balance, of which $2.602 million is the Parks' share.
The main level of the Wellness Center will feature four full-size gymnasiums, offices and classrooms. The upper floor features a fitness center, offices, rooms for meetings and classes, and an elevated walking track. The basement level will house the Lincoln athletic department.
Spalding said dramatic changes will occur in the structure in the next few days when the main basketball court is installed and elevators arrive.
In a Wellness Center schedule dated Jan. 10, Spalding listed 15 events already booked, beginning with an archery tournament April 1, a Boys & Girls Club event June 19 and many basketball tournaments. Spalding said just those first 15 activities will bring thousands of visitors to Jefferson City and will represent hundreds of thousands of dollars in economic development for the community through gas sales, restaurant services, tours and hotel taxes.
Spalding said Tuesday he was unsure which Parks offices and staffs would move to the Wellness Center, including his own.