Special to the HT
MEEKER | Meeker Recreation Center will officially reopen Tuesday, May 26. We appreciate your patience during this year’s shutdown and are excited to welcome you back to a more comfortable, functional, and beautiful facility! Here’s a recap of our progress and what to expect when you return.
Facility Environment Improvements
Our primary focus this year was a total HVAC replacement. We contracted with TRANE to swap out a failing rooftop unit and install new terminal units throughout the facility. Despite the surprises that come with any construction project—including an intense thunderstorm that briefly delayed crane day—crews worked hard to ensure timely completion.
Combined with our new building automation system, you will notice more comfortable temperatures and fresher air throughout the building. These upgrades will also improve energy efficiency and reduce long-term utility costs. Shout out to Ducey’s Electric for their assistance with the HVAC replacement and other projects over shutdown.
We also wrapped up a long-term effort to correct pool environment deficiencies, avoiding a multi-million dollar roof replacement and months-long closure. Thanks to Amick Construction for their work on this project.
Fitness Room Reconfiguration
We focused on maximizing space in the Fitness Room on a limited budget. Improvements include new flooring in the back area installed by TLC Carpet One of Craig and equipment reconfiguration in both the back area and main gym. We also added a new power rack, the number one request from last year’s Fitness Room Focus Survey. While more upgrades are planned for the future, this intermediary phase will allow us to assess patron needs before moving forward.
Other Shutdown Successes
• Staff Training: We held an all staff training and refreshed our First Aid/CPR/AED certifications. Thanks to Mountain Charisma for catering lunch.
• Front Desk: We renovated and reoriented the Front Desk to be more welcoming and efficient. Thank you to Mountain Top Cabinet Shop for assisting with this project.
• Website: We upgraded our website based on community feedback.
• Membership Bonus: We extended current memberships by 30 days.
• Pool Implement Refurbishment: While the pools were drained, we refurbished the spray play features in the pool. Thanks to Meeker Collision for their work on this.
• Repairs and Cleaning: We tackled a huge list of landscaping, maintenance, repair, and beautification projects, and cleaned the entire facility from top to bottom.
While the facility was closed, the ERBM team was on-site to manage projects, knock out punch lists, and get the building ready for summer. We even had brand-new summer lifeguards jump in to help out before they’d even worked an official shift. It was a big push to get the doors back open on time, and we’re really proud of the work everyone put in to make it happen. Please give our team a”thank you” when you see them around town!
Congratulations, Graduates!
We also want to congratulate the MHS Class of 2026, including lifeguards Dublin Price and Brooklyn Metzger. Dublin and Brooklyn received ERBM Employee Scholarships to help them pursue continued education. Our third scholarship recipient is Axel Lezama, who is currently working for the District full-time while pursuing a recreation-related degree. We are proud of these three for their hard work and dedication!
Looking Forward
Here are a few additional updates as we gear up for summer.
● Park Operations Transition Reminder
○ On June 1, operations for Town Park, Circle Park, Sanderson Hills Park, 6th Street Field, Foothills Park, McHatton Park, and Sage Hills Park will be returned to the Town of Meeker.
Please direct inquiries to 970-878-5344.
○ ERBM will continue to maintain Phillip & Dorcas Jensen Memorial Park and trails, Paintbrush Park, and the Paintbrush Park Ballfields. Call the Front Desk at 970-878-3403 with any questions.
● Cost recovery study underway
○ ERBM recently contracted with Chris Nunes of Broken Compass Consulting to develop a revenue philosophy to promote recreation opportunities and operational sustainability.
Watch for more details in the coming months.
● Summer activities begin in June
○ Many summer sports and activities kick off in June! View details on our new Activity Calendar at erbmrec.com/activities
○ The return of summer also means all your favorite community events are back! Mark your calendars for Meekerpalooza on June 12, June 26, and July 17, and Bounce & Splash
Free Days June 6, June 17, July 11, and July 22 with FREE admission to MRC all day!
Visit erbmrec.com for additional information or call the Front Desk at 970-878-3403 with any questions.
We look forward to a summer filled with community fun and recreation!
