By Allison Peck | North Platte Post
The sounds of construction filled the air at North Platte’s future Recreation Center, echoing off unfinished walls and bouncing through empty hallways. Hard hats clicked on concrete floors, power tools buzzed, and the scent of fresh paint mingled with sawdust as city officials and staff walked through the site, imagining how the space will come alive once the doors open.
Phase 1 of the Recreation Center, set to open June 1, is shaping up to be a major hub for both recreation and community events. From competition-level pools to a versatile gymnasium with climbing walls, the facility promises to offer something for everyone.
At the heart of the project is the Beiveridge Aquatic Center, which will feature a 10-lane, 25-yard pool, comparable in size to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s pool. The main pool reaches 11 feet at its deepest, dwarfing the current six-lane, 25-yard pool. Additional aquatic features include two water slides, a hot tub, and a smaller activity pool for classes like water aerobics. The slides have their own outlet, meaning the rest of the pool can remain open for use while the slides are in operation.
In addition to the aquatic area, the new gymnasium is taking shape. The space will feature at least two basketball courts, each equipped with dividers that can be raised and lowered from the ceiling, allowing the gym to host multiple activities at once or open up for larger events. Batting cages can be suspended for full use of the courts, and the gym will also house exercise equipment and a track with windows overlooking the courts, so visitors can watch activities from above.
The gym will also include removable turf panels, allowing the space to transform for indoor versions of sports such as football, soccer, or baseball. This flexibility ensures that the gym can accommodate a wide range of activities year-round.
A highlight of the gymnasium is its climbing walls, designed for both traditional and 3D-style climbing. The 3D wall can accommodate up to four climbers at a time, and the difficulty can be adjusted, creating a challenge for beginners and advanced climbers alike.
The facility also includes practical amenities for families and community events. A wet classroom—designed for pool parties and birthday celebrations—allows children to enjoy activities without needing to cross the building. Nearby, a concession stand will serve snacks and drinks, rounding out the full recreation experience.
For spectators and participants alike, viewing areas on the upper level provide elevated perspectives, while bleachers and windows give clear sightlines in both the gym and aquatic areas. Natural light will fill the space through extensive windows, moderated by louvers that block direct sun without sacrificing brightness.
Phase 1 is just the beginning. Outdoor sand volleyball courts may be added in the future, and other flexible spaces, including meeting rooms, teaching kitchens, and a balcony for morning yoga, will give the community even more ways to gather and stay active.
With 31 new toilets and a 24-hour fitness area, the Recreation Center is designed to handle large crowds while offering convenient, modern amenities. Officials emphasized that, while comparisons to a YMCA have been made, the facility is locally driven.
“When we imagined this space, we wanted to offer more for our community on our own,” Lyle Minshull said.
By summer, the sounds of construction will fade, replaced by the laughter of children on the ninja course, the cheers of athletes on the courts, and the splash of swimmers in what promises to be North Platte’s most versatile new community space.