Temecula's Newest Recreation Center To Open After Lengthy Rebuild

TEMECULA, CA—The newly rebuilt Margarita Recreation Center will celebrate its official grand opening from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 23, at 29119 Margarita Road.

This groundbreaking recreational facility is designed for people of all ages and abilities, according to the city. It will serve as a site that aims to bring innovation, recreation, enrichment, health and wellness, education, and more to residents of all ages.

The center's original footprint was built in 2012 on city-owned land and served as a YMCA. The city purchased the building from the floundering business for $1.6 million, and it was used as a location for city classes and community programs. In March of 2021, it was decided in 2021 that a total demolition would be best for the future of the structure. The city funded the max-allowed $8.7 million contract, marking the city's first design-build project. The cost breakdown at that time showed $565,000 for the facility's design, $7,472,462 for construction, and $642,997 of profit to De La Secura Builders, Inc., according to city documents. At that meeting, the City Manager was authorized to spend up to $120,000 over the projected build costs.

The recreational center's plans included 8,600 square feet of indoor space, including a classroom, multipurpose room with partition, dance and fitness room, kitchen, offices, lifeguard and first aid rooms, locker rooms, and restrooms. Outside, there was space for multiple patios and the 45-foot wide by 75-foot-long pool.

The brand-new facility has zero depth, warm water, a wheelchair-accessible six-lane pool, a dance/fitness studio, a multipurpose room, and a classroom. While you are at the MRC, be sure to check out the beautiful mosaic mural created by artist Troi Follansbee with the help of local Temecula Elementary School students, parents, and faculty.

"The goal of our community's new facility is to bring all walks of life together to enjoy a wide range of activities, programs, and services that are most important to the quality of life for all our residents," a spokesperson said.

Temecula Mayor James 'Stew' Stewart discussed the new center and what it means to residents.

"The opening of the new Margarita Recreation Center is a momentous occasion," Stewart said. "We are committed to providing our community with high-quality public amenities, which ultimately raise the quality of life here in Temecula. I encourage our residents to come to our open house and see everything this facility has to offer."

For more information about the MRC Open House, please call 951-694-6480 x4160.