SYLACAUGA, Ala. – On Wednesday, Aug. 12, Sylacauga Parks and Recreation Director Steve Masters opened the new recreation center’s groundbreaking ceremony by reflecting on the lengthy process that led to the milestone.
“The idea started in 2017, and it didn’t take long to understand that nothing in government moves quickly,” Masters said.
Masters also highlighted the people and initiatives that helped bring the project to fruition. He credited a previous City Council for committing ideas and funding to an overall master plan for the Parks and Recreation Department.
“We’ve renovated two parks, with two more renovations coming,” Masters said. “We replaced a non-functioning eyesore and turned it into the very busy Courtside Park. We’re improving Boat Dock Ln. to provide better access to Lake Howard. There are so many people to thank for being part of this long but productive journey to improve the quality of life for families and citizens.”
Mayor Matt Hubbard, who served as chairman of the Parks and Recreation Board when the effort began, said the project is about more than facilities.
“It’s about hope and opportunity,” Hubbard said. “It’s about making lifelong friends and memories. It’s about promoting healthier lifestyles that contribute to our quality of life in meaningful ways.”
Council President Tiffany Nix began her remarks by thanking former Council Member Ashton Fowler and Lee Perryman for their leadership and contributions to the project.
“When people and businesses look for new homes, they look at industry, education, and recreation,” Nix said. “With this master plan for our Parks and Recreation Department, we will have all three of those areas among the strongest anywhere. That’s something that should make us proud.”
