Recreation Center
Updates to the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center will expand the square footage by approximately 30% and renovate some portions, including the aquatics complex and community programming space.
7/28/2026
The survey on community preferences for services and amenities at the BBRC was open from June 24-July 12, 2026. City staff collected responses to a short-form version of the survey at the July Art Night, Bike to Work Day, and at the Recreation Center.
598 total responses were recorded, and the results of the survey are now available (see sidebar).
7/23/2026
The first in a series of public engagement sessions was hosted by Davis Partnership Architects to introduce conceptual designs, share more information about the project and hear about community input, ideas and priorities for the project.
The concept plans for the renovation and expansion of the 35-year-old community recreation center include a total replacement of the aquatics complex, expanded space for fitness, senior services, and community programming. 
These conceptual plans include increased square footage for flexible community program space, new dedicated space for wellness services (foot care, massage, stretching, etc.), an older adult’s lounge, a large community space with catering kitchen for social events, expanded fitness space, and a redesigned aquatics center with 8-lane lap pool.
July’s engagement event was well attended, and input was provided about accessibility, motor vehicle parking, fitness spaces, family changing rooms, environmental sustainability as well as questions about the future of the existing Senior Center on S. Iowa Street.
The Senior Center is open Monday to Friday and sees about 56 visitors daily between programs and drop-in visits. As Lafayette’s population of residents aged 65 and older represents one of the fastest-growing community demographics, we know we will need more space for community programs and services for older adults. While the renovated BBRC will include larger spaces than the current Senior Center, no decisions have been made about what will happen to the existing building. Future discussions will consider community needs, staffing and operational costs, maintenance, and program revenue to ensure we make the best choice for our residents.
6/26/2026
The City has launched the Capital Bond Hub on Lafayette Listens, a new central location for the latest updates on the three projects funded by the Capital Bond. Hub visitors can now subscribe to updates on the projects that interest them the most, and general updates will become less frequent.
Bob L. Burger Recreation Center
At its June 2 meeting, City Council approved a design contract with Davis Partnership Architects to complete the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center design. The firm is also working with the City on Lafayette Fire Station No. 2 and has completed similar projects with the City and County of Broomfield and the University of Colorado Boulder.
Capital Bond Project History
| Project Scope | Cost Estimate | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Expand by approximately 30% and renovate some portions, including the aquatics complex and community programming space. Watch the Recreation Center video | $34 million for design, construction, and other associated costs. | 1 year of design informed by community input and 18-24 months of construction. |
While the overall structure of the recreation center remains usable, the 35-year-old aquatics complex has reached the end of its life. The current complex routinely experiences significant leaks and mechanical failures, resulting in closures. The proposed renovation would enhance services for residents by:
- Replacing and expanding the entire aquatics area, installing a new water slide, a warm-water pool for therapeutic aquatics, an indoor whirlpool, and a larger lap pool.
- Additional space for individual workouts, fitness classes, older adult programming, preschool, after-school programming, and flexible community space.
The current facility will continue to require costly stop-gap repairs to address mechanical failures and leaks, resulting in significant water loss. The facility’s outdated design requires disruptive work, such as tearing up the pool deck, to reach mechanical equipment and repair leaks. Improved equipment and modern design would not only address current deficiencies but also improve the City’s ability to repair leaks and equipment in the future.
The aquatics facility leaks water and is not energy efficient. The renovation and replacement would address these concerns and improve the building envelope, including walls, windows, doors, foundation, and insulation, to increase energy efficiency.
