The future of the Mitchell Recreation Center took a significant step forward as the county commissioners approved the initial design plans. The action came during the first meeting of the Mitchell County Board of Commissioners on Jan. 2. Set to be constructed behind the current County Administration Building in Bakersville, the center promises to be a hub of activity and wellness for residents.
Spanning an impressive 13,120 square feet, the facility is designed to cater to a wide range of recreational activities. Key features include a gymnasium equipped with a basketball court and a walking track, complemented by a concession area. Additionally, the center will boast an aerobics/dance studio, a well-equipped workout room, and locker rooms to facilitate various fitness routines. The building will also function as the operational heart for the Mitchell County Recreation Department, housing its offices and storage spaces.
With the initial site grading already completed, the construction is set to commence this spring, eyeing an opening in late 2025. The center’s conceptional rendering was provided by Scott W. Bartholomew Architecture of Asheville.
Brock Duncan, Mitchell County Director of Recreation, shared his insights and the vision behind this project.
“While the local schools have been wonderful, it’s tough to share. It became a constant problem with space. Even now, after school hours, you can’t just go play ball. You have to be in the right season to,” Duncan explained. “Kids can come to the rec center nonstop. The lights will never go off.”
Duncan emphasized the long-term impact of the recreation center
“The fact that we’ve put so much time, sweat, and begging into trying to get this done, it’s bittersweet. We’re going to do what people said couldn’t be done,” said Duncan.
Duncan extended his gratitude to all those involved in making the project possible, including the Mitchell County Board of Commissioners, Senator Ralph Hise, and community volunteers.