The Recreation District, Uintah County and the City of Vernal selected the highly experienced team of SportsPLAN Studio and Edwards and Daniels Architects to design this remarkable community icon as the initial phase of the extraordinary 80-acre Alvin and Virginia Kay Memorial Park. Uintah County gathered funding from mineral leases, which allowed the District to build this facility without using tax dollars.

The center’s open building design offers an array of recreational opportunities for all ages with easy access and visual connections between the main recreational spaces. A unique running track on the second level overlooks all activity areas, as well as offering views to the outside to provide changing views and enhance the running experience.

Long, sloping roof forms are inspired by nearby rock outcroppings at Red Fleet Reservoir. The overall design of the building invites abundant natural light to central locations, especially to the indoor pool area.

SportsPLAN Studio prepared the space program, assisted EDA in the planning and design and worked closely with the staff to prepare operating pro forma.