A New Breeze is Blowing Through Rec Center

By R. Gabriel Villalobos

Carlsbad would not be what it is without its beloved Riverwalk Recreation Center. The squeaking of sneakers and echoing voices of children playing games fill the air as baskets are made and missed on the courts. Children and their families come to lose themselves in a variety of games and activities every day, but there’s something new in the air at the rec center this year. A cool breeze now blows over everything and everyone throughout the building. Air conditioning has been installed, and it really has changed everything.

A massive HVAC system was installed with funds secured as part of the Carlsbad Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP). For anyone who hasn’t been there in a while, it might be time to head back because the center is gearing up to serve the community with a roster of classes and activities that will keep folks moving and having fun all summer long.

Locals all have memories of sweating it out to participate in some group activity or another. The center was never short on fun, but it was always pretty hot. The swamp coolers that were used previously offered some relief, but they just cannot compare.

Sarah Anaya, an assistant manager at the center, has worked there for twelve years. When asked about it, she admits, “It really makes a difference. I know it’s been 20-plus years (that) this has been a rec center.” For all that time, locals have gladly braved the high temperatures and the muggy atmosphere to come together and have fun. It feels different now, but it hasn’t lost any of the spirit that makes it such a special hub for the community.

Today, there are a number of classes that anyone can join, including a Zumba class that will get hearts pumping and muscles moving. They also offer a newer Strong Nation workout class. It combines body weight, muscle conditioning, cardio, and plyometric training moves. Everything is synced to music that has been specifically designed to match every single move. There is a dance class if people want to get physical but prefer dancing instead of a high-intensity workout.

Whether visitors are into foosball, ping-pong, racquetball, shooting pool, playing basketball, or skating, there’s never been a better time to head back to the center. Also, a parade is just the tip of the iceberg this Fourth of July. Live music, food vendors, and activities for the young and old will all be on tap. The staff and volunteers will work the event in different capacities.

Anaya confessed that she didn’t grow up here; she’s from Arizona. The community she found at the rec center makes her very happy that she ended up here. She said she’s not the only one who feels that way. The hallmark of a healthy, cohesive community is seeing the same people pop up in different places, helping in different ways. When a building that’s over 100 years old can have new life breathed into it, ensuring it remains part of the beating heart of the city, it’s natural to feel proud and to feel perfectly at home.