Does Palos Heights Need a New Rec Center?

A Palos Heights alderman is asking the city's Parks and Recreation committee to look into the possibility of building a new fitness center.

Michael McGrogan, an alderman for the 4th Ward, said the current favorable bond rates for construction projects, which had come up in discussion of library construction, make for an ideal time to build a center. He talked about a comprehensive fitness center at a recent City Council meeting.

"This would be a complete rec center that you could actually have people working out (at)," McGrogan said.

Skip ahead to the 26:00 mark in this video from the Jan. 15 City Council meeting on PHTV Channel 4's UStream feed.

Palos Heights current rec center, located at 6601 W. 127th St., currently offers a variety of exercise programs and fitness classes.

A fitness center project is proposed for Tinley Park, which will have cardio equipment, batting cages, a pool and other amenities, is estimated to cost about $5.6 million. McGrogan referenced the neighboring village's project during his request at the Jan. 15 council meeting.

McGrogan estimates that the project could cost Palos Heights $10,000 a month, part of which would be offset by operating revenues. Voters could give the nod to funding, McGrogan said, noting that pool referendums had passed in the past.

"I think we can afford it," he said.

What do you think? Would you welcome an updated, comprehensive and public fitness center? Do you think Palos Heights can afford it? Tell us in the comments.

Join the conversation. Friend Palos Patch on Facebook and sign up for the daily email newsletter!

Want more news?

• Brown Bag Style: Save Money by Packing Your Own Lunch
• 20 Ways to Go Green in 2013
• 10 Things to Do with Your Kids Over Holiday Break