BY HALEY MCLEOD
More details
Growing pains
Boyle said she envisions the center as a “second home” for Leander’s older adults—a space to build friendships and maintain physical health. A study by The University of Texas at Austin linked the importance of social relationships on well-being in later life. “Diverse relationships that extend beyond close ties may lead to di erent types of behaviors that contribute to well-being in older adults,” the report states. “Individuals who are socially integrated par- ticipate in diverse activities … may lead to greater levels of physical activity and enhanced well-being.” The facility and programming has also been designed for accessibility, utilizing community input, Boyle said. Membership costs are low, and the center o ers a wide range of popular tness classes alongside social activities. In addition, the center is located within a Cap- Metro Pickup Zone, which provides a public transit option for those who prefer or are not able to drive.
Because the facility was designed nearly a decade ago, it is already feeling the squeeze of modern population numbers, Bonardi said. The multipurpose room isn’t large enough to hold all interested participants, forcing caps of 45 people on popular classes like chair yoga, which has discouraged some members, she explained. Additionally, Bonardi said the center currently has limited hours, operating weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. “The center should stay open past 4,” Bonardi said. “[This] would need to be a priority in the next budget session.” She noted that sta ng shortages have also been an issue that is preventing the group from taking day trips like they did several years ago.
The breakdown
Accessible pricing: Memberships cost $25 a year for residents and $33.75 for nonresidents. Upgraded tness amenities: Unlike the old facility, the new center features a dedicated tness room with cardio and strength-training machines, allowing many seniors to cancel expensive private gym memberships. Diverse programming: The center o ers a wide range of popular tness classes, including chair yoga, Pilates, low-impact boxing and tness drumming, alongside social activities like book clubs, arts and crafts, and potlucks.
SOURCE: CITY OF LEANDER COMMUNITY IMPACT
Looking ahead
“Project dollars don’t stretch the way they did back 10 years ago. ...
Additionally, multipurpose space at the center may soon be available for event reservations and programming space, Boyle noted. A formal ribbon-cutting and grand opening celebration is planned for the spring once construction on the building’s kitchen is complete.
Based on a recent survey of over 200 members, the city is evaluating the center’s $89,420 operating budget to determine the stang costs needed to extend hours into evenings and weekends, Boyle said. The facility currently has four full-time sta members. A city representative said a decision “should be determined soon.”
We’re already looking at a Phase 2 expansion on-site.”
ASHLEA BOYLE, LEANDER’S PARKS, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
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