Talks and plans are underway for the construction of a new public recreation center in Silver City that may go up on the campus of Western New Mexico University.
Long anticipated, the facility would be designed to replace the city’s current all-purpose recreation center, located at 1016 N. Silver Street.
At least $8 million is currently available for the project, with half of that amount coming from the State of New Mexico and the rest from town funds.
As discussed, the new facility would most likely house multiple courts that could be used for indoor soccer, volleyball, and pickleball.
A survey recently undertaken by the town indicated that respondents most want to see a swimming pool as part of the center, along with such amenities as a weight room and indoor track.
Exactly how much a recreation center, with a pool, will ultimately cost, remains to be seen. But Silver City officials have said that addition funding may be secured from the New Mexico Outdoor Equity Fund.
That fund was created in 2019 with the idea of providing state backing for local recreational and outdoor facilities.
While an exact site for the project has not yet been determined, town officials are weighing the benefits of building the center on the WNMU campus where the Eckles Hall, which was demolished two years ago, once stood.
Also under consideration: building the facility somewhere in the vicinity of 32nd Street and Silver Street on the north side of town.
By Garry Boulard
