Community Center Feasibility Study

Community Center Funding Survey Results are in!

Comm Center Data flyer

Community Center Bond Survey

The City is now exploring options to determine how to fund the first phase of the potential Community Center’s construction. To do this, the City enlisted the services of DHM Research to conduct a scientifically valid survey among Happy Valley residents to gauge the level of support or opposition there would be given several funding options. This study was conducted in October 2023 and carried out through live interview calls and text outreach, ensuring a diverse cross-section of Happy Valley residents participated and a representative sample was obtained to accurately reflect the community’s sentiments. Full results from this study can be viewed here.

A key takeaway from the survey revealed that residents are very eager to build a community center that will offer opportunities for everyone across the lifespan and provide year-round recreational activities. Additionally, the survey sheds light on residents’ eagerness to see construction commence promptly, emphasizing the pressing need for a spacious, centralized space that caters to the community sooner than later.

The information generated by these survey results provides a solid foundation for us to begin taking the necessary next steps to bring such a landmark to Happy Valley. These active steps include reconvening with the Parks Advisory and Community Center Steering Committees to discuss final amenity inclusions and reconnecting with potential community partners to explore possible ways to manage and maintain the building once it is constructed. At this time, a Steering Committee meeting has been set for Tuesday, January 30 at 5 p.m. to discuss the recent findings. Meeting with take place at City Hall. Residents are invited to attend and can find more information here.

Background

For the last several years, the City has been conducting a feasibility study and developing plans to bring a Community Center to fruition. Based on input gathered through surveys, focus groups, and a resident-led Steering Committee, the following amenities rose to the top:

• Aquatics
• Double Court Gymnasium
• Indoor Walking & Jogging Track
• Large Community Room & Kitchen
• Reservable Gathering Space
• Weight & Cardio Spaces
• Group Exercise Room

Potential building designs for a community center were conceptualized in 2022, with ideas based on input to the City by the community. The Parks Advisory Committee and City Council reviewed the designs and are excited to share a sneak peak at some of these early renderings.

At the same time, the City has already taken significant steps towards the realization of the Community Center vision by acquiring 40 acres of land east of 172nd Avenue. This land is intended for a future community center and a community park.