A three-year journey to reimagine a Town of Tonawanda community recreation center will end this week when the facility reopens to the public with improved pool and gym areas.
The Town of Tonawanda Aquatic & Fitness Centerwhich a town official said is losing about $600,000 annually, begins a fresh chapter at 5 am Tuesday after a monthlong shutdown to complete improvements the town hopes will position AFC as a desirable alternative to nearby chain gyms.
“It will have a better vibe to attract young folks and families,” said Carl Szarek, a Town of Tonawanda councilmember and chairman of the Youth, Parks and Recreation Department committee that led the overhaul.
The facility’s footprint was expanded by a third, Szarek said Saturday, and gym locker rooms were demolished, walls removed and exercise equipment spaced out to create a more open concept. Szarek said members appreciated more space when AFC reopened its