HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Dr. Richard Showers, Sr. Recreation Center is due for some much needed renovations. The facility saw a $1.2 Million revamp almost a decade ago in 2016, but not much has changed since then.
Now, officials want to hear from those who use the popular northwest side center.
"We see nearly 1,500, 1,600 people here a week, so we are one of the busiest buildings in all of the city of Huntsville," said Kent Ballard, director of the recreation center.
The use over all the years is evident. Officials held a public input session on Tuesday to get a grasp on what the people want to see added or upgraded.
"I'd like to see air conditioning in the gymnasium. I'd also like to see pickleball on the outside," said resident Cheryl Davis Aruwajoye.
Some talked about revamping the popular swimming area. Other discussed making sure there's something for everyone.
"Maybe a rock climbing wall, skateboard areas," said resident Renita Parks. "We also need things for our more seasoned people that they can engage in. We also need something for our younger children."
Rec center officials said there's still a long way to go before renovations can go from concept to reality. The city has a contract in place with architectural company Nola VanPeursem to see what it can do.
"It's very important for them to come in, look at the totality of the space to see how far, it can go, how high it can go, or how wide it can go. So it's a really cool process to see them work through that situation as well," said Ballard."
For residents, the center has served as a hub for years. They are excited about long awaited upgrades to the facility.
"I think it's been a great place for the community," Parks said. "I've hosted several different occasions out here. I've utilized several of the rooms in the facility for different occasions.
"I just think it's been a great area with a great community together."