By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The Hays Recreation Commission plans to build a new facility at the southwest corner of 13th Street and Canterbury Drive.
A sales contract for the 3.1 acres has been signed and is expected to close April 21, said Roger Bixenman, commission superintendent.
The $275,000 cost of the land, owned by IP Management, LLC, Hays, will be paid by the Hays Recreation Commission Foundation.
Board members and staff have been discussing the need for expansion for several years, Bixenman said, specifically for more gyms and multi-purpose space.
The plan was shared with Hays city commissioners and city staff members during a joint meeting Wednesday night to talk about future collaborative efforts between the two entities.
"Our mission is to provide quality facilities and recreational activities for all ages, and this space we have right now has been sufficient for a long time and still is," Bixenman said.
However, staff anticipate a large influx of after-school users and patrons when the new high school opens and the middle school moves into the former high school on East 13th Street, said Roy Inlow, board member.
The new Hays High School is scheduled to open in August. The current high school will be remodeled as the new Hays Middle School and open in January 2026. The schools will be within easy walking distance of the planned new recreation facility.
Several conceptual designs are still being considered. The new space would likely house two gyms with a couple of dedicated pickleball courts, locker rooms, multi-purpose rooms and some office space. The estimated cost of the 25,800-square-foot building is $11.5 million.
"It would provide the opportunity for more open gym time — pickleball, basketball, volleyball players — and possibly provide more space for tournaments down the road, to help out the community," Bixenman said.
Cash reserves available for capital improvement projects would be used to help finance the new building. The board is also talking about a possible leaseback agreement, which was done with the fitness center and paid back within three years instead of 10, saving some interest.
The selected design could be built in phases to add amenities as needed and funds allow.
Another extensive $15 million, 38,500-square-foot design features an upper-floor indoor walking track. That's where a partnership with the city might come in.
"Get everything you dream about on the table," Mayor Sandy Jacobs said, "then look at your best revenue sources and start scaling back. That's how we'll know what we can do on a long-term basis."
"Recreation facilities enhance the quality of life in Hays," she said, while pointing out that the city is on a tight budget.
Bixenman said, "Having the city's backing and help on something like this would sure be helpful. We collaborate on a lot of things like the sports complex and the swimming pools."
Shaun Musil, city commissioner, said, "I'd like to see us partner with you."
The Hays Recreation Commission board will meet in a special meeting at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 9 at the rec center to further discuss the building project.
Bixenman hopes to have a design finalized and out to bids within a year.