Bloomington residents are about to get something pretty incredible: a brand new $101.8 million community health and wellness center that's going to put most other Twin Cities facilities to shame.
The Numbers Are Impressive
This isn't just another community center renovation. Bloomington spent over two years listening to residents before committing to this massive project, funded by a local sales tax that voters actually approved back in 2023.
They also snagged $1.8 million in state money for the design phase.
The new center will completely replace their current Creekside Community Center and Public Health building at 9801 Penn Ave. S – basically starting fresh with something much bigger and better.
What They're Actually Building
Looking at the architectural plans, this place is going to be huge. We're talking about a two-level facility that's more like a wellness campus than a traditional community center.
The fitness side alone is impressive – multiple fitness studios, dedicated cardio areas, weight training zones, and a full aquatics center. But they're also thinking beyond just gym equipment. There are indoor play areas for kids, flexible spaces for community events, and even specialized rooms for people with sensory needs.
What really stands out is how they're integrating health services right into the building. Parks and rec, public health, WIC services – it's all going to be under one roof. That's pretty smart planning.
Why This Matters for Us
First, this facility is going to be close enough that it could become a real option for folks in northern parts of our area, especially when local gyms are packed or don't have specific programs you're looking for.
Second, Bloomington just set the bar pretty high for what a modern community wellness center can be. As our South Metro cities continue growing, this project shows what's possible when communities really invest in resident health and wellness.
And honestly? Sometimes it's just nice to have options. When this place opens, it'll be another quality recreational facility within reasonable driving distance.
The Bigger Picture
What's really interesting about this project is how Bloomington approached it. Two years of community input, a focus on accessibility for everyone including refugees and immigrants, and a design that actually tries to serve families at different life stages.
That kind of thoughtful planning is something we're starting to see more of across the Twin Cities area, and it's encouraging for anyone thinking about what future community investments might look like in Lakeville, Apple Valley, or Eagan.
When Will It Open?
The timeline is set for a 2027 grand opening, with construction beginning this year and going throughout 2026.
Whether you end up using the facility or not, it's always interesting to see what neighboring communities are doing – especially when they're doing it this well.