New west-side city rec center adds indoor play; memberships exceed projections

There’s a new option for kids’ indoor play as the city of Sioux Falls has added equipment to its new Westside Recreation Center.

The city took over the former Sanford Wellness Center at 8701 W. 32nd St. at the start of the year.

“Passes have exceeded our expectations,” said Brett Kollars, assistant director of the city’s Parks & Recreation Department.

“Our initial goal was 2,600 by the end of the year; as of (last) Monday, we’ve reached 3,500 monthly and annual passes. More importantly, 61 percent of passes are family passes.”

In addition to monthly or annual passes, the Westside Recreation Center has issued more than 3,100 day passes, which is an average of 50 per day during the week and 80 per day on the weekend.

The newest addition is an indoor play space designed for children 7 and younger.

The area features seven mini structures, designed to offer a safe and stimulating environment for kids to burn off energy, and a small gym with basketball hoops is attached, catering to those looking for more active play.

“We’ve seen a wonderful response, which makes me smile,” Kollars said. “This is what Parks & Recreation is here for. I don’t have figures to share, but anecdotally, people are loving the space.”

While the early-play addition is a hit, “just you wait,” Kollars continued. “We know indoor play is a priority for the community based on feedback we heard in public meetings. We’re actively planning a grander indoor play solution, though we can’t share a timeline yet as we need to sort out the funding. There are other essential facility improvements we need to make before that picture is clear.”

That includes improvements to the roof and parking lot.

“We’re also preparing for court resurfacing of both the gymnasium and racquetball courts,” Kollars said. “Beyond that, we’re excited about recent cosmetic improvements, including fresh paint, lighting and carpet.”

In the meantime, the Westside Recreation Center also has started offering programs for all ages. That’s also guided by community feedback and focuses around enrichment, health and wellness, and cultural arts.

Current programs include cycling, aqua fitness, senior fitness programs, yoga, karate, art exploration and a pool treasure hunt.

“These offerings will continue to be refined at the facility as we grow,” Kollars said. “As the department evolves, we’re committed to expanding multigenerational programming with a focus on indoor recreation, play facilities and adult fitness programs across the system.”

Indoor play is available from 9 a.m. to noon and 4 to 7 p.m. weekends, and all day on weekends.

Staff members disinfect the equipment between sessions on weekdays and throughout the day on weekends. Day passes are available, so you don’t need to sign up for an extended pass to access the indoor play. Kids 3 and younger get free admission to the Westside Recreation Center. All children must be supervised by an adult pass holder when using this area.