Oro Valley celebrates ribbon-cutting for new Community Center entryway

Published on March 04, 2025

ORO VALLEY, Ariz. (March 4, 2025) – The Town of Oro Valley hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony today to officially mark the completion of the Oro Valley Community and Recreation Center entryway and elevator project, a significant step forward in accessibility for residents and visitors of all abilities.

Town officials, community members, and project partners gathered at the Community Center to recognize this milestone, which enhances access to the Overlook Restaurant, Golf Pro Shop, and community rooms. The new elevator and improved entryway provide a seamless and welcoming experience for all guests.

"This project reflects our commitment to improving and enhancing access to the Town’s buildings and facilities,” said Mayor Joe Winfield. "The Community Center is a very popular hub of activity, and I share our community’s excitement and gratitude that guests of all abilities will now have an even better experience when visiting this facility.”

A Community-Driven Effort

The project was made possible through strong community advocacy, Town Council leadership, and strategic investment in public infrastructure. Construction began in January 2024, performed by Barker Contracting, Inc. Since January of last year, crews have lowered the Community Center’s main entryway, installed an elevator, and added 10 new accessible parking spaces near the entry.

"The completion of this project is a major achievement," said Town Engineer Paul Keesler. "This is about more than just an elevator—it’s about making public spaces truly accessible and welcoming to all."

The Town’s Parks and Recreation Department also highlighted the broader impact of this upgrade on community well-being.

"At its core, Parks and Recreation is about fostering connections and creating opportunities for all ages and abilities," said Parks and Recreation Director Roz Epting. "This project strengthens that mission by making the Community Center an even better gathering space for our residents and guests."

Overcoming Challenges

Renovating a 40-year-old facility came with its share of challenges. The project required significant structural modifications to remove walls, relocate offices, and reconfigure the second floor to accommodate the elevator. Unexpected obstacles arose as crews uncovered aging infrastructure behind the walls.

"With a building of this age, you don’t always know what you’ll find until you start digging into the systems," said Keesler. "We hope the improvements were worth the wait!"

About the Oro Valley Community and Recreation Center

Located in the heart of Oro Valley, the Community Center is a hub for fitness, recreation, and social connection. The facility offers fitness classes, cardio and strength equipment, racquetball, pickleball, tennis, and swimming. It is also home to two 18-hole golf courses, the Overlook Restaurant, Golf Pro Shop, and community meeting rooms.

The Oro Valley Community and Recreation Center (10555 N. La Cañada Drive) is open seven days a week, offering a variety of activities. To learn more about Oro Valley Parks and Recreation programs, visit the department’s homepage, explore upcoming events and activities on PlayOV.com, and follow OV Parks and Rec on Facebook!

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