Adult Leisure Center Update

Work has begin to replace Little Rock's Adult Leisure Center at
University Park, almost three years after the center was destroyed in
an October 2009 fire. The facility, which will be renamed The Centre
at University Park, is the city's only community center focused
specifically on senior and adult recreation.

Haggling between the city and its insurance company over what
materials could be reused in the new center delayed construction.

The insurance matter was settled last summer for about $2 million.
With the 1 percentage point increase in the sales tax approved last
September, the city was able to add an additional $980,000 to rebuild
the 15,000-squarefoot building.

After site work and demolition costs, the city will spend $2.7 million
on the center, which is scheduled to open in 2013, said Mark Webre,
assistant parks and recreation director.

Arecent event showcased some improvements planned for the facility,
including moving it closer to 12th Street for greater visibility.
Parking will be moved behind the building, and new outdoor plazas with
tables and other amenities will be added.

Mayor Mark Stodola said the center will incorporate space for
activities most popular among the city's senior citizens.