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Davis Journal

South Davis Recreation Center eyes expansion

Jul 08, 2021 01:17PM ● By Julie Thompson

South Davis Recreation Center, 400 North 200 West, Bountiful, is in need of repairs and expansion. Photo by Julie Thompson

South Davis Recreation District Director Tiff Miller, with Todd Meyers and Whitney Ward, recently visited a West Bountiful City Council meeting in order to give a presentation concerning the inability of the facility to meet the growing population and needs of the communities it serves. With annual passholders nearing capacity, and an increased interest in sports programs, the current space and condition of the complex is inadequate. With no space for expansion, the situation will worsen over time.  While the recreation center is able to utilize gyms and outdoor spaces of local schools, the increasing needs of the school may eliminate this benefit in time.

Two surveys were conducted among the residents of member communities to assess current and future needs in order to formulate a master plan. The consensus included the need for a new 50-meter pool, expanded space for fitness classes, and increased weight training and cardio areas. While an additional pool could be added on the south side of the current building, a second location seems necessary to accommodate the remaining issues.  

As presented, the solution would be for the recreation district communities to purchase a 10-acre parcel of land where a running track, gymnasium, leisure and lap pools, and fitness areas could be constructed. The cost to purchase property and build such a facility is $23,800,000, with another $250,000 per year needed for operational costs.  Additionally, the current SDRD is in need of approximately $3,000,000 worth of repairs and $16,000.000 for renovations, upgrades, and expansion of the existing recreation center.

A bond for the funding will be voted on as part of the 2021 municipal election this fall. If passed, the new bond would cost the average homeowner approximately $36/year for the first three years and $76/year thereafter. The original bond passed in 2006 expires in 2026.  Businesses will likely pay about $36/year in additional taxes.