Treat yo’selfto an updated community center. According to Deputy Director Brad Clay of KCMO's Parks and Recreation Department, community centers are getting fit with new gym equipment this fall.

That includes Brush Creek, Westport Roanoke, and Marlborough community centers, which have not had any gym equipment for several years. Upgrades come as the ~400 employees of KCMO Parks and Recreation work to increase relevant offerings + the public's awareness.

“Last fall, we [launched] the Recreation Activity Guide, which lists all of the programs P+R has to offer. The Activity Guide is published … Fall, Winter/Spring, and Summer," said Deputy Director Brad.

Brad joined KCMO Parks and Rec 15 months ago but has been in the industry for 33 years. He said his most cherished career memory is building Olathe's first community center.

“Olathe didn’t have a community center for 160 years, and we finally were able to build one. We had a consultant that … estimated the Olathe Community Center would have approximately 4,000 daily passes sold in year one. [We] ended up selling over 40,000,” he said.

Fast Facts about Deputy Director Brad:

Observation Park is his preferred local park because “the view of the KC skyline is incredible.”
Sleeping Bear Dunes in northern Michigan is his favorite national park.
His favorite "Parks and Recreation" character is Rob Lowe.

*Views from the 816.* The Deputy Director wasn't kidding. That skyline at Observation Park is incredible | Photo by KCMO Parks and Recreation

He also told us the department is seeking input from the public.

“P+R would love to hear about programs the public would like to see offered in our parks and community centers. Reach out ... ,” he said.

You can view KCMO Parks and Recreation’s updates, programs, and submit suggestions at kcparks.org.