The Summit-University neighborhood recreation center, on Lexington Avenue just south of Interstate 94, has been in the works for more than a decade with the city buying properties including 65 housing units in several apartments and single-family homes.

A committee of park users, area residents and civic group leaders is advising St. Paul Parks and Recreation on what the new center should include and is expected to offer recommendations late this year or early 2005. Some want a big basketball gym that could host tournaments.

After that, a design firm will draw plans incorporating the recommendations and put a price tag on the project. The center and the pool would be constructed and ready to open in 2006.