Construction Around Town: Republic Community Center

Republic may have been ahead of the times when it constructed its first community center 12 years ago, but its increasing population now at 9,500 has since outgrown the center. This new $3.1 million center, approved by the citizens of Republic, will be more than three times the size of the first. The 46,000-square-foot structure will have two community rooms, a kitchen, concessions, two gymnasiums, a walking track, offices and a 10,000-square-foot fitness area operated by CoxHealth. The estimated completion date according to general contractor Masonry Structures Inc. is July 31, 2003. Project architect Sapp Design Associates has drawn plans for the community centers in Nixa, Willard and Branson, as well. According to Michael Sapp, community centers are a national trend late in their arrival to the Ozarks.