Mayor’s Message

Old Gym to Become New Community Cultural Arts Facility

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news that will breathe new life into a beloved part of our town’s history. The “Old Gym”, as it’s often referred to, will receive a significant remodel and update this year. The building, located on the northeast corner of Telegraph and Main, was built in 1922 as a 2,600 square feet addition to the 2 story school that was originally built in 1877 by Cotton Mission settlers. The goal is to better utilize the 102-year-old portion of the building by integrating modern functionality while preserving the rich heritage of this sandstone structure, rooted firmly on pioneer grit and a lava rock foundation.

This endeavor is made possible through the city’s commitment to enhancing our community spaces. I’m proud to announce that Recreation Arts and Parks (RAP) funding will be utilized to transform the Old Gym into a vibrant community gathering hall for cultural arts activities, community events, civic meetings, and more. This initiative aligns with the city council’s forward-thinking resolution, passed four years ago, which earmarked 35% of RAP funds for a Cultural Arts Facility. After careful consideration, this project emerged as the most cost-effective and conservative choice to invest in for the benefit of our community.

Method Studio has been selected as the architectural firm and is currently in the early stages of design for the remodel. SIRQ Construction has been selected as the General Contractor to oversee the project on a design-build basis. However, your input is invaluable, and we want to ensure that the update reflects the history and priorities of our city. To that end, we will be conducting a special walk-through with several civic organizations to gather their insights and recommendations. We understand the importance of involving various voices in this process and want to ensure that the renovation resonates with the entire community.

Additionally, I invite all interested residents to a public open house at the Old Gym on Monday, January 29th, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. This event will provide an opportunity for residents to see preliminary designs and to share feedback, ideas, and memories associated with the Old Gym. Your input will help shape the project, and we are eager to hear your thoughts on how we can best reinsert modern use and functionality into this building while preserving its pioneer-era heritage look and feel.

The Old Gym renovation is not just about updating a structure; it’s about revitalizing an underutilized and aging city asset to create a useful space that meets the needs of our evolving community. Please be patient, because the building won’t be available for Cotton Days or other events while under construction. Further, the remodel will be specific to the gym area, and won’t include the school, now used as a museum by the Historical Society.

Your presence and input are welcome as we embark on this exciting project together. Thank you for being an integral part of Washington City’s past, present, and future.

-Kress Staheli

Mayor

kress@washingtoncity.org