The Pella City Council has officially received a proposed building capital plan to invest in the performing and fine arts as well as the construction of an all-new, state-of-the-art recreation facility. Mayor Don DeWaard says this week marks the official start of moving forward with several key components, including a citizen’s commission, additional fundraising efforts, and the start of finding engineering companies.

“The goal of the city is to provide facilities that enrich our community and provide opportunities to enjoy the arts and stay active year-round. I’ve heard from so many Pella residents over the years about the importance of having activities and options for all ages,” said Don DeWaard, Pella Mayor. “This investment and these plans demonstrate our commitment to making the City of Pella a great place to live, work and visit.”

Investing in the performing and fine arts will require a minimum of $5.5 million, with decisions as to whether the investment will go towards renovating the existing Pella Community Center or towards an all-new facility will be made at a later date and dependent on potential funding. The proposed new recreation facility will have gyms, an indoor track, weightlifting and fitness equipment, a competition-sized swimming pool, and more. Once approved, the building will take two years to construct, with a projected opening date in 2025.

The city estimates an investment of approximately $45-60 million would be required to complete these two projects. The capital plan still needs to be formally approved by the council, but council agreed at their April 19 meeting to move forward

DeWaard says businesses in the community have already pledged to join in this important investment, as Pella Corporation, Vermeer, and others have committed a collective $12 million in funding to support the city’s plan.