The Bentonville Adult Recreation Center is on track to open about 2 years after the project received city approval.
The construction site has been buzzing with activity since work began in September to transform the 8,300-square-foot Downtown Activity Center at 215 SW A St. into a two-story, 45,000-square-foot facility designed specifically to serve the community’s 50-and-over population. The project is on track for a soft opening as early as June.
“Other than a few very minor delays, this project has kept moving along,” said David Wright, director of Bentonville Parks & Recreation. “If we’re able to get administrative staff into the building in April, we could be looking at a soft opening for our first 750 Premier Members by June. That 30-day soft opening will allow us to make whatever minor adjustments are needed to programming and facilities before a full opening in July.”
With the opening, Bentonville will follow the lead of Fayetteville, Springdale and Rogers, which all have wellness centers geared toward seniors. The new center is also expected to help alleviate some pressure on the Bentonville Community Center on the southwest side of town — a need highlighted in the city’s “Play Bentonville” 10-Year Master Plan adopted in 2017.
“We knew there was a need for additional indoor recreation — and the 50-and-over population told us they were feeling a bit left behind,” said Josh Stacey, deputy director of Bentonville Parks & Recreation. “We listened, and the Bentonville Adult Recreation Center will reflect their top wishes. This is so much more than just a fitness center; it’s designed to be the gathering hub for active adults in Bentonville.”
Inside the New Facility
Members of the Bentonville Adult Recreation Center will find spacious indoor and outdoor social gathering areas, including a full-service coffee and snack bar operated by 211 Café.
The main level features a large lobby; rooms for activities such as cards, arts and crafts; a full-size gymnasium for pickleball, basketball and other sports; a warm-water therapy pool with ample space for aqua aerobics classes; and a classroom/lecture room equipped with presentation technology.
The second level features an open fitness area with strength and cardio machines, free weights, locker rooms, a group fitness studio for barre, spin, yoga and other classes, and a 1/14-mile indoor walking and jogging track.
“We’re excited for residents to experience this facility,” Stacey said. “The flooring in the gymnasium and track is designed to reduce impact compared to traditional hardwood. The pool includes walk-in access, wheelchair access and even a lift, if needed. This facility truly is designed to meet the needs of anyone over the age of 50. It’s a big addition to the community.”
Those ages 50 and up will be able to purchase an all-access pass that includes the new Bentonville Adult Recreation Center, the Bentonville Community Center and the Melvin Ford Aquatic Center. The Adult Recreation Center will also offer separate memberships and day passes.
The total cost of the project is approximately $24 million, including about $22.5 million for the building and roughly $1.5 million for furniture, fixtures and equipment. Grants from the Town Branch Foundation — a nonprofit connected to the Walton family — will provide $21.3 million, with city of Bentonville impact fees and capital covering the remainder.