Built by DL Withers Construction, the $1-million facility, located adjacent to Countryside Elementary at 15245 West Greenway Rd., is expected to begin offering programs by the beginning of the year. "We are laying new groundwork with this cooperative effort between the city and the school district," said Mark Coronado, director of community recreation for the city. "It will allow us to maximize usage for our residents, expand extended care programs and provide a safe environment for the students."

The design by Gilleland Brubaker Architects Ltd. features a gymnasium with basketball hoops and a rubberized sports flooring, two large multi-use classrooms, a dance studio, craft room and office space. The facility offers Countryside Elementary students a place for gym classes, intramural sports programs, school assemblies and special events. When school is not in session, the Surprise Recreation Department will use the center for city-run recreation and education programs, including classes in yoga, dance, aerobics and after-school care.

Countryside Elementary School, which opened in August, is located adjacent to the new recreation facility and was also built by DL Withers Construction and designed by Gilleland Brubaker Architects.