Shawano Recreation Center in Shawano, August 12, 2026. PC: Fox 11 Online
SHAWANO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Improvements are mostly complete at the new City of Shawano Recreation Center.
“We’re getting close to being able to open, to the public, and we just wanted to start to share the story. Our recreation center has really maybe transformed into even more of a community center,” said Matt Hendricks, City of Shawano Parks and Recreation Director.
On a guided media tour Wednesday afternoon, Hendricks said he likes what he sees.
“We’re very excited. It’s well-designed. It has a lot of good flow to it. The rooms seem to be adequately-sized,” he said.
Built in the 1950s, city officials say the original recreation center needed an upgrade. Shawano City Administrator Eddie Sheppard says redesigned spaces include the weight room complete with new equipment, and new high-tech classrooms too.
“Connectivity for people who maybe want to have a meeting here, or need to do tele-health medicine here. or just want to do some homework,” said Sheppard.
A technology grant from the state paid for most of the nearly $6 million project, according to Sheppard.
“We wanted to make sure that when we built it out, that any type of technology-related purposes for the community, that it’s available for them here,” he said.
City leaders say the old swimming pool will be available, and part of an effort to keep people active all year long.
“I think everyone in Wisconsin is challenged a little bit in the winter months, so by providing a space where you can come, be physically active, still continue with education, or online learning, and then engage with other people socially is a priority for us,” said Hendricks.
The new Shawano Recreation Center is scheduled to open to the public on August 24.
A grand opening celebration is planned for September 12.
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