SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The City of Sioux Falls is now offering another option for recreation.
Thursday was the opening day of the Westside Recreation Center.
The facility used to be the Sanford Wellness Center at Tea/Ellis Road, but the city bought it.
The city officially took over operations on New Year’s Day and opened the doors at 5:00 a.m. Thursday.
“We are extremely excited,” City of Sioux Falls Recreation Manager Jackie Nelson said.
As of Thursday morning, the Westside Recreation Center had over 1,200 monthly and yearly pass holders.
“We hope to continue to see that rise over the next few weeks, but we’re very pleased with where we’re at today,” Nelson said.
Amy Doese is one of them.
She and her husband were Sanford Wellness Center members before the city took over.
“It’s a nice area, there’s a lot of room. I like the newer equipment,” Doese said.
The center offers a variety of recreation opportunities.
“From the fitness equipment that’s behind me to racquetball, the different court sports. We have aquatics, fitness room, group exercise, all sorts of different things for community members to come out and enjoy,” Nelson said.
It’s another step toward expanding the City of Sioux Falls’ indoor recreation space.
“We’ve got a park system we’re incredibly proud of, about 5 million visitors a year, the majority of which are through the spring, summer, and fall. Given our climate, it’s important we’re able to offer an opportunity to be indoors when the weather gets difficult,” City of Sioux Falls Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation Brett Kollars said.
“We’re very optimistic for the west side and really looking forward to getting something similar to this on the east side to be able to better support the whole community,” Nelson said.
The city is planning some upgrades to the rec center including replacing the parking lot and roof.
