FORT WALTON BEACH — Construction of the city’s new consolidated recreation center is on track to cost $8.07 million.
The Fort Walton Beach City Council voted 6-1 this week to move forward under that “guaranteed maximum price” from Lord & Son Construction.
The cost came in just under the $8.25 million city officials had budgeted for the project.
Councilman Trey Goodwin said the recreation center is “the right thing to do.”
“I’m excited to see us keep moving and get this thing done,” Goodwin said. “I think it’s going to be great for the city and … great for the community as a whole.”
Councilman Bobby Griggs voted no, citing fiscal concerns.
“I think this is a great project, but I can’t vote yes on this,” he said. “I have to vote no. I’m concerned about the city going into debt.”
The council also voted to issue a competitive solicitation for interest rates during the next 30 days to determine how to finance the project.
Finance Director Brandy Ferris said the two options being explored are a bank loan and a bond issuance.
If the council approves a financing plan within the next two months, construction could start by mid-summer.
Under the plan, the city will close the Docie Bass, Fred Hedrick, Chester Pruitt and Creative Senior centers, all of which were built in the 1970s. The buildings need $1.7 million in major repairs, including new air conditioning systems, mold and mildew abatement and interior renovations.
The city will demolish Fred Hedrick on Jet Drive and build the new recreation center on that site. The three other aging buildings either will be sold or demolished.
The new center will span more than 30,000 square feet and include rooms for fitness, dance, games and after-school programs, as well as a full-sized kitchen and two racquetball courts.
“We’ve got an air-conditioned gymnasium, which leaves us endless opportunities for banquets and things like that,” said Jeff Peters, the city’s recreation and cultural services director.
Outside amenities will include a 2,500-square-foot patio, a one-mile walking trail, a concession stand and lighted athletic fields for softball, baseball and soccer.
“I think the team has pulled together and given us a product we can be proud of,” Councilman Dick Rynearson said.
Rynearson said he appreciates the efforts by Lord & Son and DC Architects to make the building energy efficient.
Bleachers, basketball goals and several other sports fixtures are included in the price, but most furnishings will be purchased separately.
Peters said one plan is to sell sponsorships for various rooms in the building and for the scoreboards.
“But we will develop a budget for furnishings such as desks, file cabinets,” he said.
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Kari C. Barlow at 850-315-4438 or kbarlow@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @KariBnwfdn.