Planned rec center in Monroe City to offer year-round activities, services

MONROE CITY, Mo. — A warehouse on Second Street in Monroe City is expected to soon become a vibrant activity hub of the city.

The 22,000-square-foot building is being renovated as a community recreation center for Monroe City and surrounding areas. MC Rec Center is a nonprofit agency and led by a board of directors comprised of Mindy Hays, Troy Patterson, Jackie Pangborn and Doris Mehrer.

The center aims to foster community engagement and promote healthy lifestyles. It will feature an indoor walking/running track, youth area, workout classes and a community room. The facility will house two basketball courts for basketball, volleyball, pickleball, soccer and other activities.

“Being able to offer year-round activities and services is one of the main reasons we know this project will be impactful long-term,” Hays said in a press release. “It is imperative that our community members of all ages and abilities have a safe and ADA complaint area to stay active and healthy all the time, not just when the weather is nice.

“The positive feedback has been unbelievable. It’s no secret that body movement and social interaction is important for physical and mental health. Our mission is to provide a safe and engaging space for all our citizens.”

The project has two phases. The first is the acquisition of the building. Phase two consists of the renovation of the facility into the community rec center.

Hays said a project like this typically could be funded through a sales tax or some form of city-backed funding. This project, however, will not have any city funding and not affect taxpayers.

“This will truly be a community project,” Hays said. “Private donors, grants and the grit of our town will make this project happen.”

Hays says funding has already been rolling in, and the board has kicked off a capital campaign to complete phase one.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve seen so far,” Hays said. “I’ve seen how amazing this area is at coming together when it’s most needed. I can’t wait to see the doors open and serve all of our residents.”

For more information, visit www.mcreccenter.www.mcreccenter.com or MC Rec Center on social media.