Fort Collins breaks ground on $60M Southeast Community Center this June

A groundbreaking ceremony for Fort Collins’ new Southeast Community Center will take place on June 10, 2023. The event, scheduled from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at 5400 Ziegler Road, marks the start of a major project designed to serve one of the city’s fastest-growing areas.

The centre will bring together recreation, education, and wellness services under one roof. Attendees can expect live music, refreshments, and a chance to meet Waddles, the city’s Recreation mascot.

The new facility will offer a wide range of amenities for all ages. Inside, visitors will find fitness and recreation spaces, an elevated indoor walking track, and studio areas. There will also be public library resources, study rooms, and dedicated children’s play zones. Flexible meeting spaces and innovation hubs for technology, arts, and creative learning will round out the offerings.

Outdoor features include aquatics facilities with a lazy river, natural recreation areas, and spaces for community programming. The design aims to adapt to future needs, ensuring the centre remains useful for generations. Speakers at the ceremony include Fort Collins City Manager Kelly DiMartino, District 3 Councilmember Josh Fudge, and Poudre Libraries Executive Director Diane Lapierre. Also addressing attendees will be Poudre School District Board President Jessica Zamora, Clark & Enersen Principal Kate Penning, and GH Phipps Construction Regional Director Tim Johnson. Project representatives will be on hand to discuss the centre’s vision, sustainability plans, and how the design meets the community’s evolving needs. During the event, guests can explore the Poudre Libraries mobile library and enjoy family-friendly activities. The focus will be on celebrating the start of a project set to become a cornerstone of the neighbourhood.

The Southeast Community Center is designed to be a versatile hub for recreation, learning, and connection. Once complete, it will provide residents with modern facilities tailored to the area’s growth. Construction follows years of planning to create a space that balances fitness, education, and community engagement.