Lockhart acquires building for future indoor recreation center

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The city of Lockhart said it acquired a building April 22 to utilize as a future indoor recreation center, which was a community priority in the city’s "Lockhart Looking Forward Comprehensive Plan."

According to the city, the $1.75 million building was previously used as a movie theater and is located at 120 W. MLK Jr. Industrial Boulevard.

“The acquisition of this property will allow the City of Lockhart to provide an indoor recreation center to residents much sooner and at a lower cost than acquiring and developing a new site and constructing a new facility, which is estimated to have taken many years to accomplish. The City will continue to assess the long-term development of a future recreation center adjacent to the future aquatic center as the city grows and adapts to changing needs.”

City of Lockhart

The property is more than 13,000 square feet and has more than 100 available parking spaces. According to the city, there was also enough land to allow for possible expansion in the future.

“The indoor space could be retrofitted for large courts, for activities like basketball, pickleball, multipurpose rooms, and more,” the city said. “Staff have also recommended converting some of the indoor space into studios for group exercise classes, including spinning, yoga, Pilates, and stretching.”

The city said next steps included finalizing renovation plans for the building.