Overview

Envisioned as a beacon of community engagement, this $150 million multi-purpose center slated for western Cary would beckon residents of all ages and backgrounds. The facility is a testament to the town’s commitment to fostering an active, enriching lifestyle for its citizens.

Aspiring athletes could hone their skills on state-of-the-art basketball courts, while seniors would find a community with an array of activities tailored to their needs. The center’s multi-use classrooms and ceramic studio are designed to ignite creativity,  while an aerobic gym along with fitness and weight training spaces, and a scenic walking track would offer an oasis of physical health and well-being.

If approved, this center would be one of two new community centers, the first in over 20 years.

Project Scope

To meet the community needs and interests, a 115,000-square-foot facility is proposed to include:*

• 3 high school basketball courts or 6 middle school (40,000 sq. ft.)
• Senior center spaces including multipurpose classrooms and lounge, and access to the catering kitchen
• Lobby with Indoor playground
• Adventure walking track
• Ceramic studio spaces with kilns
• Multi-use classrooms
• Child watch for parents/grandparents taking classes
• Aerobic spaces
• Fitness and weights
• Locker rooms with showers and restrooms
• Admin and support spaces such as mechanical and circulation
• Sustainability infrastructure
• Public art
• Structured parking

The outdoor program spaces would feature shade and trees connecting to the greenway and nature. The proposed facilities are designed to specifically meet the high demand in western Cary for youth athletics, large group meetings, and arts and crafts classes.

*Proposed plans still in progress and subject to change following additional citizen engagement if the bonds are approved.

Anticipated Project Schedule if Funded

About 5-7 years once funding is allocated, including master planning, design, bidding, construction, and opening.

Project History

The 2012 Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Master Plan, adopted by Council, recommended the construction of a community center in future phases of Mills Park. In November 2015, this need for the community was reiterated in the Council-approved Mills Park Concept Plan. Included within this plan was the recommendation to construct a 50,000- to 100,000-square-foot community center with adjacent outdoor amenities such as a multipurpose field.

• Community Center Survey:  View the results of our Community Center Survey held in 2022 – 2023 through public engagement, used in helping Cary ensure that current and future facilities serve as extraordinary public spaces for all to enjoy.
• Public Meetings: January 11, 2022

Potential Economic Impact

If approved, the construction portion would be expected to:

• Retain $29.6 million locally
• Result in a total economic output of $50 million
• Support 355 full-time jobs and $16.8 million in wages 

Annually, tournament activities hosted at the community center, in conjunction with nearby facilities, are estimated to generate:

• $2.5 million in net new direct spending
• $4.2 million in total economic output
• 53 full-time jobs

For more details, please review the complete Economic Impact Analysis. 

ROI studies are estimates based on current knowledge and assumptions and should not be interpreted as guarantees. Further ROI and fees and charges studies will be conducted if the bond is passed, and the projects move forward.

Tax Implications

Approval of $590 million in general obligation debt would raise Cary’s property tax rate by 9 cents. This increase occurs upon debt issuance and goes towards repayment. The tentative plan, subject to change, is 3 cents in 2026, another 3 in 2028, and an additional 3 in 2030. 

Note, this increase would not cover the operating costs of the proposed new facility. If approved, those costs would be determined through master planning and likely funded by additional property tax increases.