Plans for Doylestown Township’s new community recreation center are moving forward, as officials announced they’ll launch a capital campaign next month to help fund the ambitious project.
Initially, the campaign’s goal will be $1.5 million, however Barbara Lyons, chair of the township’s board of supervisors and the capital campaign committee, said the amount could grow, if needed. The first round of fundraising is needed to match the $1.5 million state grant the township received last year.
With a price tag of approximately $10 million, the 18,000-square-foot rec center will include one large room, which can be divided into three smaller spaces for classes and programs, athletic activities, meetings and special occasion celebrations, officials said. Across the hall, there’ll be a kitchen for cooking classes and party preparations.
An 84-foot by 50-foot gym will be a major feature of the community center, said township manager Stephanie Mason. It will be able to accommodate basketball, pickle ball or volleyball.
Also included are three new tennis courts, two basketball courts and six pickle ball courts that will be developed on an existing athletic field. Restrooms and a watering station are also planned to serve Kids Castle playground and the township’s amphitheater.
The center will also serve as a “shelter-in-place” area in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency.
During nice weather, visitors will be able to enjoy a patio area with a fireplace.
In addition to the capital campaign and the grant, a bond is expected to help pay for the center, as are naming rights, officials said.
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