Work is under way to repair the Arkadelphia Recreation Center gym floor.
Earlier this month, Recreation Center staff began noticing raised floorboards under the staircase to the fitness center. Staff believed it was a moisture issue under the floor, and contacted Searcy-based Gym Masters to address the problem.
Gym Masters confirmed there is a ground moisture problem under the gym floor as a result of no upper barrier protection when the floors were installed. This resulted in the large “bubble” that formed in the area.
Gym Masters presented two options to the Recreation Center staff: 1) Sand down the floor, give it a chance to dry out, and return to its normal size; or 2) If option #1 does not work, replace the gym floor.
The difference in cost was over $88,000. Option #1 was, however, successful. Parks and Recreation director Stuart Tapson said, “The floors have shrunk significantly since we sanded them down last week. We are confident they can be salvaged and repaired.”
Tapson went on to say the floors will take time to fully dry out. Due to this, the Rec Center basketball court will be closed for the remainder of the summer.
“We truly looked at all options to keep this court open for the summer,” Tapson said, “but unfortunately we had not choice but to close it. We are grateful to Gym Masters for working with us to address this issue promptly, allowing us to reopen the gym as soon as possible. In the meantime, families looking for something fun to do this summer are encouraged to check out our outdoor basketball courts and the Aquatic Park.”
Gym Masters will return to Arkadelphia in two weeks to check the moisture in the floor again. Staff will know the more about how quickly the repairs will be completed.