Photo Credit: Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture
An extraordinary transformation occurred in the Dallas-Fort Worth MetroPlex Parks, Recreation and Aquatics scene in 2015; The REC (Recreation-Education-Community) of Grapevine opened to great fanfare for area residents. The multi-generational recreation center features active-aging areas, a community event hall, a raised stage, classrooms, advanced fitness areas, two gyms and racquetball courts, an indoor children’s themed playground, an outdoor courtyard with special event/programming area, and a stunning aquatic center.
Background
The original Grapevine Community Activities Center was built in 1996, and the 2015 expansion increased the square footage to 108,000. This facility was renovated to serve the growing community, which has placed real value on recreation, education, and service. Amenities for the renovation and addition were selected through citizen input in the feasibility planning stages, led by PROS Consulting. The project vision crafted in 2013 was simply this: “Provide a multi-generational facility to enhance quality of life and promote a sense of community.” The REC has accomplished this and so much more, evidenced by residents from age 1 to 100+, all having fun in one facility.
The Brand
As the 60,000 square-foot addition was being built, the city of Grapevine smartly rebranded itself as “The REC of Grapevine,” with the help of The Atkins Group Advertising Agency. Construction of the project began a year earlier and was completed on an accelerated schedule by the team of the city, Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture, Water Technology, Inc., and A&P Construction. “The teamwork, heart, and dedication that was a part of this project was amazing,” says Kevin Mitchell, Grapevine’s Director of Parks and Recreation. “This was not just another job to this team; they ate, slept, and breathed Grapevine.”