Winter Haven, FL
Summer camp participants inside the Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center.

Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center Improvements Project

Project Budget

  • $21 million

Amenities

  • 37,616 square feet (20,000 general use, 17,616 gymnasium)
  • Double Gymnasium (multi-use) (Two Basketball, Four Volleyball)
  • Recreation Programming Space
  • Fitness Center
  • Activities Room
  • Library / Technology Area
  • Business Support Area
  • Kitchen (Caterer) & Concession
  • Support (Offices, Restrooms, Storage)
  • New Swimming Pool with Zero-Depth Entry
  • Splashpad
  • New Playground
  • Outdoor Sport Court
  • One Baseball Field
  • Picnic Areas
  • Open Spaces
  • Band Storage
  • Expanded Parking

Benefits of Full Redevelopment

  • New construction allows for a modern, state of the art design. This will allow for more flexible and efficient spaces.
  • Building MEP systems above and below ground will be new and efficient and designed to function with one another.
  • Ability to ensure proper mobility and ADA access throughout the facility.
  • Feedback on design / layout is not constrained by existing building location, major structural and mechanical components which can’t be moved, or other onsite amenities that would otherwise minimize opportunities for an expanded footprint.
  • Any effort to improve the site/building either through renovation or new construction should incorporate appropriate homage to historical events and people significant to Florence Villa and Northeast Winter Haven.

Question? City of Winter Haven Staff Contact:

Andy Palmer
APalmer@MyWinterHaven.com
863-291-5656 x5014



Proposed building floorplan.

Opportunities to Engage

Help Shape Programming at the New Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center
Closed
5 min

Help Shape Programming at the New Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center

As we prepare for the opening of the new Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center, we want to hear from you. Your input will help us design programs, classes, and activities that reflect the needs and interests of our community. This survey takes just a few minutes—thank you for helping us build something meaningful for Winter Haven.

Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center Improvements Project

WHRCC Exit Wall Quote Selection
Closed

WHRCC Exit Wall Quote Selection

The brand new Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center will feature an inspirational quote prominently on the main wall, visible as you exit the building. Our committee of community members have selected six possible quotes for this area and are now asking the community to vote on their favorite! Help shape the new facility and the message all see as they exit the facility into the community. What message do you want to see for individuals to carry with them?

Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center Improvements Project

Naming at WHRCC & Lake Maude
Closed

Naming at WHRCC & Lake Maude

The WHRCC History Committee has brought forward a recommendation for how to name certain areas in the new Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center and Lake Maude Park. The goal is to ensure important members of the community are remembered and honored in the most appropriate way. We are asking the community's feedback on the recommendation.

Winter Haven Recreation and Cultural Center Improvements Project

Stay Informed

Get notified on upcoming engagements and the latest project related news.

"We are so excited and proud to bring this expanded, multi-use facility to the community; a hallmark for all ages now and into the future."
Julie Adams
Julie Adams
Parks, Recreation, & Culture Director

Project Timeline

Community Input Session & Survey
May 2022
Design
2022-2023
Community Focus Group Meetings
2022-2024

Project Updates

Important Dates

28
Jun 2023

Public Meeting for Project Design

Wednesday, June 28 2023
5:30 -7:00 p.m. – Open House
6:15 pm – Brief Presentation
Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center Gymnasium
801 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd NE

6
Jun 2024

Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center Construction Community Open House

Thursday, June 6 2024
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Open House
6:00 p.m. – Brief Presentation
6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. – Q&A with Staff
Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center Gymnasium
801 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd NE

3
Jan 2025

Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center

We would like to invite you to join us for a Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Winter Haven Recreation & Cultural Center. The ceremony will take place on-site (801 M.L.K. Blvd NE, Winter Haven, FL 33881) on Friday, January 3 at 9:30 a.m. Parking will be available in the grass and paved lots along 8th Street NE.