Showers Center examines makeover possibilities

Published on July 25, 2024

The Dr. Richard Showers, Sr. Recreation Center, a longtime community hub in north Huntsville, will undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine needed upgrades.

The City hired Nola Van Peursem Architects on a design services contract to review the architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems of the 58,000-square foot facility at 4600 Blue Spring Road. The assessment will also include 10,000-square feet of ancillary buildings on the campus.

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The amount of the contract is $35,000 and is for 270 days.

"The architects will work withParks & Recreation and other City staff to review the current and future programming needs of the overall campus and facilities," General Services Director Ricky Wilkinson said. "They will make recommendations for building modifications, updated finishes and equipment/system replacements as necessary to be included in potential future renovation projects."

Key to the review process will be public input sessions for residents to let the City know what they want to see at the Showers Center. "The Showers Center means so much to the people in north Huntsville, and we want them included in our planning process," District 1 Council Member Devyn Keith said. "It's personal for me because it's a place I learned to swim as well as make my first layup. We want this center to be the next 'shining star' in our redevelopment plans."

The popular recreation center hosts neighborhood meetings and features an indoor swimming pool and an outdoor splash pad. Aerobics classes and swimming lessons are among the offerings at the facility.

"The Showers Center is a place where we can get together for meetings, activities and community celebrations," Keith said. "I'm excited to support this evaluation that will start us on the path toward making this special place even better and one worthy of honoring the late Dr. Richard Showers, Jr. and his legacy of service."