Saturday, August 21, 2010.

That was the day the LH North Recreation Center closed its doors to begin an eight month long renovation.

While rumors circulated last year that the rec center was closing due to city budget cuts, the real story dates back to the 2006 bond election.

The $850,000 renovation got underway last summer thanks to the Dallas voters.

For Lindsey Rider, who manages the rec center, it's been a busy eight months.

"Shortly after closing, the entire building flooded. We were able to salvage the gym floor, which now looks great."

Not related to the flooding were plans that included new flooring throughout the center, new lighting and the addition of permanent walls.

"The newer section of the rec center, which was built in the 90's, got all new paint, blinds, and its restrooms upgraded," says Rider.

The older side, built in 1971, received brand new restrooms, complete with glass tile, new shower facilities, and both are now ADA compliant.

Upon entering, guests will most likely be struck by the abundance of natural light in the main corridor of the center.

New sky lights and the removal of an old upstairs office make for a much more open feel.

Vending machines have been removed from the hallways, and a special room was built toward the east side of the building to house them.

The command center, where staff interacts with the public, also enjoyed an overhaul complete with new desks, cabinets and glass partitions.

Architect Sally Johnson worked hard to use interior colors that enhanced the natural, outdoor setting that surrounds the center.

Joan Walne, president of the Dallas Park and Recreation Board, is both pleased and excited by the changes.

"I think the team did an excellent job expanding the dollars budgeted for the project."

"It is such a beautiful space, from the pond to the walking trail. We are really excited about this reopening."

In addition to new AV equipment, the Lake Highlands Junior Women's League and the Exchange Club of Lake Highlands each pitched in with funds for new window coverings, furniture and flat screen televisions.

Still in the works is special mosaic, currently being designed and created locally, and slated for installation sometime in May.

"We're really grateful for the community's support and patience as we weathered the renovation process," says Walne.

"Lindsey provided invaluable input to the architectural and contracting teams, and we know everyone will be proud of the finished product."

Guests can also look forward to new programming offerings when the center hosts its community open house on Monday, May 2nd.

Registration for summer camps will begin that Monday, as well.

Prior to the open house, however, the team hopes residents and supporters will attend the ribbon cutting ceremony and community tour on Saturday, April 30th, in conjunction with the Lake Highlands Junior Women's League Run the Highlands 5K.

Registration for the race is open through Thursday, April 28th for both the 5K and 1-mile family fun walk.

Make plans to participate in the race (especially since funds raised benefit more rec center improvements) and be sure to stay for the grand re-opening ceremony and carnival that follows.

LH Today will be there, and we hope you will, too!