Envision Opelika

Task Force Goal: A community that provides a diverse selection of state-of-the-art, multi-use recreational options for all ages.

Priority Strategy: Use all available financing mechanisms to purchase a large tract of land for construction of a state-of-the-art recreation center to include dual gymnasiums, indoor pool, exercise facilities and equipment, and a senior citizens center.

Comment: The Parks and Facilities Task Force conducted it’s first meeting in December, 2002. Sub-committees were formed to locate available property, visit other state-of-the-art recreation complexes, and review financing options.
Spring 2003–the task force requested and was granted a $27,000 grant from the Charter Foundation to underwrite a formal concept plan prepared by Nashville architects Barge, Waggoner, Summer, and Cannon, Inc.
Fall 2004–the task force approached the Opelika City Council for funding support. Mr. Yetta Samford, a life-long Opelika resident, gifted a large tract of land on Andrews Road for the construction of the complex.
August 2004–the Opelika City Council committed to an $8 million bond issue as well as $1.5 million for architectural construction plans and the extension of water and sewage infrastructure to the site on Andrews Road.
Since August, 2004, the Opelika Parks and Recreation Board has assumed the leadership of the project. This board meets regularly with the architects to refine the plans for the recreation center and surrounding complex.

Task Force Chairperson: Mrs. Sally Phillips
Task Force Vice Chairperson: Dr. Rod Herring

Sub-Committee Chairpersons:
Mrs. Peggy Lazenby
Mr. Mike Morehouse
Dr. Don Roberts
Mr. Bill Price

Task Force Members:
Amy Patton
Kathy Penton
Bill Harrelson
Sandra Traywick
Bob Patton
Clay Humphries
Alex Whatley
Dicky Yarbrough
Barbara Patton
Larry Sankey
Janet Morehouse
David Gunter
Jeff Peppers
Bill Perry
Bill Lazenby (City Council Liaison)
Gary Fuller (City Council Liaison)

Task Force Meeting Date and Time: The Parks and Facilities no longer meets on a regular basis. Meetings are scheduled as needed or coincide with the meeting of the Opelika Parks and Recreation Board. For more information, please call the Envision Opelika office at (334) 705-5138.