Metro Detroit Recreation Center Shuts Down Due To 'Catastrophic' Mechanical Issues​

WATERFORD TOWNSHIP, MI — The Waterford Recreation Center in Waterford Township permanently closed Monday, weeks earlier than planned due to "catastrophic" mechanical issues, officials said.

Officials said the recreation center's boiler system failed, making it "impossible to maintain safe and comfortable temperatures inside the facility during the current cold weather."

The facility was originally planned to close on Dec. 31 after a township vote in October. In the vote, trustee members cited "significant safety concerns" and the rising cost of building repairs.

Officials said the recreation center's programs will be moved to the Waterford Senior Center's Leggett Campus and other township establishments. Some programs will resume the week of Dec. 8 while others will restart in January.

"Participants who prepaid for programs that are now cancelled will receive full refunds, or prorated refunds for programs that were partially completed," officials said.

Long-term plans for a new community center at Oakland County College's Highland Lakes Campus remain in place. It will host the Leggett Center and recreation center programs. It's scheduled to open in January 2028.