MSCR West Expansion

MSCR West Expansion & New Swimming Pool

Since 1926, Madison School & Community Recreation has been dedicated to enriching lives through accessible recreation and community learning. As our community continues to grow, so does the demand for welcoming, inclusive public spaces. MSCR serves approximately 100,000 people annually.

Expanding Our Footprint

We are expanding our MSCR West footprint by transforming the former OfficeMax site next door into a 25,000-square-foot community hub. Connected to our original building by a vibrant, mural-lined walkway, this sunlit adaptive reuse facility brings long-awaited recreational amenities right to your neighborhood.

A rendering of an indoor pool at a recreation center with people lounging around it and beach balls floating in the water

Warm Water Pool

At the center of this transformation is our new warm water pool. Designed specifically for year-round comfort and accessibility, the warm water pool creates an ideal environment for swim lessons, gentle aquatic fitness, joint-friendly exercise, and family open swim. Caregivers can comfortably observe lessons from adjacent viewing areas that provide clear sightlines while keeping the pool deck open and uncrowded.

A rendering of a gymnasium with people practicing basketball

Full-Sized Multipurpose Gymnasium

Beyond the water, the expansion introduces dynamic spaces built for play, athletics, and everyday convenience. A full-sized, hardwood-floor gymnasium expands our capacity for adult and youth sports, comfortably accommodating a basketball court, three pickleball courts, and two volleyball courts concurrently.

A space for everyone

The design for the expansion pays special attention to common areas in addition to the gym and pool. Soft seating, play areas and quiet nooks ensure the space is welcoming and functional for caregivers and visitors. Universal family changing rooms with adult mobile changing tables and ramped connection points ensure the entire facility is accessible to everyone. Workspaces with power outlets and cozy reading spots are also available so caregivers can relax or stay productive while programs are in session.

MSCR West Expansion History

History

For over 25 years, MSCR programs and administration called the Hoyt School home. As part of the MMSD 2020 MMSD Facilities referendum, Hoyt School was renovated to return to its original use as a school, the new Capital High. This created an opportunity for MSCR to assess facility needs for community recreation. As the public recreation provider in Madison, the team prioritized identifying space to build out a purpose-built facility to meet program needs and to geographically complement MSCR East, MSCR Central (Olin Park) and the Warner Park Community Recreation Center on the northside as core facilities that house MSCR programming in the other areas of the city.

Current MSCR West Facility

Opened in June of 2023, the current 31,000 square foot MSCR West facility is home to two large fitness studios, a dance studio, meeting & multipurpose room, a dance studio, an art room & pottery studio, and a half-court gym. In just 3 years, the programming has grown to serve _________________ annually offering _____ programs and activities each year. The immediate success and popularity of the facility highlighted the demand for both a warm water pool and additional gym space.

Expansion

To meet these evolving needs, we are expanding our MSCR West footprint by transforming the former OfficeMax site next door into a 25,000-square-foot community hub. Connected to our original building by a vibrant, mural-lined walkway, this sunlit adaptive reuse facility brings long-awaited recreational amenities right to your neighborhood.

FAQ

Get answers to your questions about the Westside Expansion.

When will the expansion open?

Construction begins September 2026 with opening to the public targeted for early 2028.

Why a Warm Water Pool?

Aquatic recreation is one of our community’s highest-demand programs, yet warm water facilities are often the hardest to access. Unlike traditional lap pools, our new warm water pool maintains higher temperatures ideal for young children learning to swim, seniors participating in joint-friendly aquatic fitness, and individuals in adapted recreation programs. By introducing this pool to the westside, we’re cutting waitlists and ensuring everyone in Madison can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of water-based recreation year-round.

What types of pool programs will be offered?

We will offer youth swim lessons, aquatic fitness classes (like water aerobics and arthritis exercise), adapted open swim, and family swim sessions.

Is the pool fully accessible for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges?

Yes! The pool features a built-in accessible entry ramp. Additionally, our facility offers fully accessible family changing rooms equipped with adult mobile changing tables.

How is the project funded?

This $9.7M community investment is made possible through district funding and local property tax investments aimed at expanding public health and recreational access.