New Moore County Recreation Center set to open

Moore County Commissioners were given a tour of the new recreation center Thursday, just before it is set to open later this month. 

Located at the entrance to Hillcrest Park, on Highway 22 where it meets Highway 15/501 in Carthage, the recreation center is a large gymnasium with multi-function rooms and the future offices of the Parks and Recreation Department.

The new facility is a 22,000 square feet sports complex which includes two gymnasiums, a concession area, and a 100 seat conference room for classes.

Over $650,000 in private money was raised to build the facility. The cost to build was $5.5 million.

New Moore County Recreation Center set to open March

Parks and Recreation Director Billy Ransom provides a look inside the recreational building.

New Moore County Recreation Center open

In accepting the building occupancy permit from Planning and Transportation Director Debra Ensminger, Chair of the Moore County Board of Commissioners Frank Quis said there is no better facility in the country. “It is done right, and it is done well,” Quis said as the other commissioners look on.

New Moore County Recreation Center set to open in March

 Ransom demonstrates how the large gym can be sectioned by rolling down dividers. This will allow play on multiple courts at the same time.

New Moore County Recreation Center opens March

A state-of-the-art air filtration system was installed at the new building. According to Capital Projects Manage Richard Smith, it is able to reduce airborne contaminants including viruses. 

New Moore County Recreation Center set to open this month

Larry Cadell (left), parks and recreation advisory board chairman is a long-time advocate for athletic programs in Moore County. “If Moore County can build a prison for $27 million, then we can build this sports facility for our kids for $5 million, Cadell said. Together with his wife, Lisa, they recently donated $15,500 to the recreation center. They hope this will inspire others to make donations to the facility.  

New Moore County Recreation Center set open

Ranson presents the ‘game ball’ to the Chair of the Moore County Board of Commissioners as the other commissioners look on.

Feature photo: County Manager Wayne Vest provided advice on how to spin a basketball.

Sandhills_Sentinel~Article and photos by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter John Patota.