Council hears proposal to install 65 acoustical panels in new West Gym; members ask for sound study or architect sign-off

Ted Davis, representing Parks & Recreation, told council the new West Gym at the Jackie Kirksey Recreation Center has poor acoustics and that the department solicited bids for acoustical panels. Davis said the recommended award is to TIPS Group LLC for 65 exterior wall panels (48-by-72-by-2 inches) chosen for cost and a high noise‑absorption coefficient.

"We went out to bid for acoustical panels for the West Gym... We are asking that council award to the second lowest proposal we received, which is from TIPS Group LLC," Davis said. He described the panels as gym‑specific and intended to be placed on all four walls to reduce reverberation.

Council members expressed caution. Councilman McCullough recommended obtaining a formal sound study or asking the project architect to review and sign off on the plan before moving forward, noting the city spent significant money on the new building. Davis said multiple sound engineers reviewed the space and bidders proposed similar quantities and materials, and he agreed to contact the architectural firm and report back to council.

The item was set for the Feb. 23 regular agenda for formal action.