*CORRECTION* The original article stated that the upgrades were approved for Sims Park, but the upgrades are instead approved for the Recreation Center. Kimley-Horn is also the firm in charge of Sims Park upgrades. Additionally, approval for the removal of Grand Boulevard between Bank Street and Sims Lane was made on February 3–removal of the road began the next day, on February 4th. See our article here for more information.

Council members approved an $800,000 contract on Tuesday night with design firm Kimley-Horn for upgrades to the Rec Center that include a larger gym area and child care facilities. City Manager Debbie Manns said that she had spoken with Kimley-Horn representatives about the project and felt comfortable moving forward with it.

Council members approved the project unanimously based on Ms. Manns’ recommendation.

This will be the first major renovation of the facility which finished in 2007 for $14 million.