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Deadwood Rec Center project progressing toward completion

By Tim Velder, LCJ staff

Deadwood--A multi-million dollar renovation and expansion of the Deadwood Rec Center is on or maybe a little bit ahead of schedule, according to the city’s public works director.

J.R. Raysor said recreation activities in the building could begin sooner than the July target date.

Ainsworth-Benning Construction is in charge of the $5.7 million project.

The project is adding a massive swim center with a waterslide, toddler area and elevated walking track. The walking track will be enclosed with its own air handling system so walkers can be free of the humid pool environment.

The portion of the building that used to have the pool will have offices, locker rooms, an aerobics workout room and a commons area.

“We have achieved maximum use of the space,” he said. “There will be something for all ages.”

Patrons will have a new main entrance toward the rear of the building, complete with a cul de sac so parents can drive to the front door to drop off or pick up their children.

Youngsters will also be able to see out the front doors to know when their ride home has arrived.

The former front reception area will be converted into a workout room with a variety of machines such as stationary bikes and stairsteppers.

The basement area is transforming into an arcade room and weight room.

Raysor said an issue that arose during construction is the seepage of ground water toward the basement area of the old building. A sump pump system has been installed to remove any excess water from below the basement floor.

The existing basketball court will stay pretty much the same, except for improved access, lighting and décor. A racquetball court is set up near the new entrance.

The rec center operations are currently set up in the Deadwood Pavilion with limited exercise and workout regimens available.

An archeological dig slowed the start of the project and an early October snowstorm threatened to put it behind schedule, but nice weather in November allowed crews to enclose the addition and work entirely inside the heated structure this winter.