Recreation committee hears pitch for outdoor “fitness court” studio with art and yoga components

Chair opened a presentation on a proposed fitness court studio for the town, inviting nonprofit presenters to describe the concept and potential community benefits. Presenters framed the project as a national campaign that pairs body-weight exercise stations with yoga space and public art and said the model aims to increase outdoor, low-cost wellness options.

Presenter (fitness court) described the program and how local programming would work, saying, "Our 7 movement 7 minutes system allows you to use your own body weight to get the perfect workout." The committee discussed likely placement near the playground/field house, ADA access and maintenance responsibilities, and whether shade coverings would be needed for regular year-round use. The presenters said the site chosen would include shade and a yoga section adjacent to the workout stations.

Funding and cost estimates were central to the discussion: presenters and the Chair cited multiple grant avenues and line items (grant ranges of $30,000–$60,000, assembly costs of about $40,000), and described how private fundraising and partner donations could reduce town expenditures. The presentation noted several potential partners who might contribute cash or in-kind work.

The committee stressed that outreach, further cost clarification, and community input would be required before any commitment. The presentation concluded with agreement to pursue pre-application grant steps so the town can learn what funding is realistically available without binding the town to pay for construction.