Presque Isle Community Center Project

A year after the general public approved pursuing a new multimillion dollar Presque Isle Community Center, more than 50 Aroostook County civic, business and municipal leaders gathered at the University of Maine at Presque Isle's Campus Center for an informational breakfast.

Presque Isle Community Center Conceptual 3-D Rendering by North Peak Architecture

The current William Haskell Recreation Center in Presque Isle is considered beyond structural repairs and may not last another 2 years. Over 14 community members have come together to form the Presque Isle Community Center Project Campaign Committee (PICCPCC) with the message "Commit to Community, Believe in Presque" and the goal of raising $3.5 million dollars.

Co-Chair of the PICCPCC Steve Richard opened the breakfast to address the importance of the project. Presque Isle City Manager Jim Bennett, who's in favor of a new community center, believes this project would improve the surrounding community for current and future generations as well as increase economic development and opportunities.

"There comes a time when a community has to decide whether it's going to be great or just okay...this project is an opportunity to make such a decision for our children, the elderly and our downtown. Frankly, we don't have another two years in the current facility. It is time to make the right decision," says Bennett.

Presque Isle Community Center Conceptual Building Layout by North Peak Architecture

According to Presque Isle Recreation and Parks Director Chris Beaulieu -- the current rec center is on its last legs and is unable to facilitate the needs to offer top quality community programs to families and its main clientele, kids.

Topics surrounding the new community center varied from how it would save tax payer dollars to additions a new community center should offer such as an outdoor pool and splash pad; which the city is in need of after Presque Isle shut down its outdoor pool this past summer due to safety concerns.

Presque Isle Community Center Project Example Splash Park Rendering by Vortex Splashpad

PICCPCC members are optimistic the funds will be raised along with the help of the surrounding communities.

If you'd like to learn more or become involved in this initiative please log onto the official project website picommunitycenter.com.

Filed Under: presque isle