The blue and gray gyms at the Ruby Fulbright Aquatic Center will be closed from Wednesday, May 21 through Monday, May 26, to allow for the installation of new bleacher systems, according to Parks and Recreation interim Director Terry Lannon.
The project comes in response to long-standing issues with the aging bleachers, which have been in place since the facility opened in 2001.
“Many of the seats were cracked, there were no cutouts for wheelchairs, and some of the motors didn’t even work,” Lannon said. The nonfunctioning motors prevented the bleachers from being folded up properly, severely limiting the usable space in the gyms. As a result, only two half-court practices could take place at a time.
The upgrade is expected to significantly improve functionality and accessibility. The new bleacher system will include ADA-compliant wheelchair cutouts and modern motorized folding systems, allowing for better use of the gym floors during practices and events.
Lannon anticipates the installation to take approximately three days, though the gyms will remain closed for a full six days to accommodate preparation and safety measures. According to interim Finance Manager Kiani Holden, the total cost of the project is $141,462 under state contract.
The aquatic center will remain open for aquatic programming and other activities outside the gym areas during the closure.
