What: Public Meeting to discuss future of the Recreation Center
When: Wednesday, Feb. 13 at 6 p.m.
Where: Montpelier High School Cafeteria
Public meeting on Feb. 13 to discuss future of the Montpelier Recreation Center
Survey finds support for upgrading existing center; some support for a new facility, indoor pool
MONTPELIER – The City released the results of a recent statistically valid survey to determine whether Montpelier residents would support funding renovation of the Montpelier Recreation Center on Barre Street or building a new facility that could feature an indoor swimming pool.
Among the findings, which will be presented at a public meeting at the Montpelier High School and City Council's meeting in City Hall next Wednesday night:
• 22 percent of those polled have used the existing center, favoring its location and gymnasium.
• Of those who have used the center, 49 percent rarely do so because the facility lacks the space, equipment and programs they seek (29 percent use other facilities).
• 41 percent would be willing to pay to renovate the existing center; 27 percent would not; and another 32 percent were a maybe or unsure.
• 25 percent would be willing to fund a new facility; 34 percent would not; and another 41 percent were a maybe or unsure.
• Those who support a new facility want a new gym for basketball and pickle ball, group exercise classes, an indoor pool, and multi-purpose rooms.
• Compared to other issues in Montpelier, 36 percent indicated that development of a new center was a high or very high priority (28 percent indicated it's a low priority; 29 percent a medium priority).
Ken Ballard, of Ballard & King, said there is no definitive majority-supported direction signaled by the survey. Residents do not strongly support a new facility or an indoor pool, although they clearly want more information before the City makes any decision on the issue.
Ken Ballard has been speaking with businesses, advocacy groups and others in the region to discuss funding options and overall interest in the project. He held a public meeting late last year to hear residents' initial thoughts; the public is invited to next week's meeting at the High School to weigh in on the issues.
The future of the Recreation Center at 55 Barre Street has been in limbo in recent years due to its aging infrastructure and lack of ADA compliance. The City must either upgrade the facility or close it. Building a new recreation center has been considered.
Ballard & King was hired to take public comment to determine what the public prefers. The survey, conducted by ETC Institute, a professional survey firm, sought opinions on not only what residents want, but what they are willing to pay for.
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