As the Town of Smyrna moves forward with its plan to transform the facility previously used as a fitness center to an Outdoor Adventure Center, as well as make renovations to the existing outdoor pool area, we are proud to announce that the Christy-Houston Foundation is providing a $900,000 grant towards this $3.6 million project.

According to Parks & Recreation Director Mike Moss "The mission for this project is to provide a facility that invests in the community's wellness and quality of life through nature, outdoor recreation and education."

"We are truly grateful for the commitment of the Christy-Houston Foundation towards the Smyrna Outdoor Adventure Center and Pool Renovations Project", said Smyrna Mayor, Mary Esther Reed. "This partnership will help empower the children and adults of our community and surrounding communities through educational and wellness activities."

"The National Recreation and Parks Association has been advocating the idea of getting kids active through nature and outdoors. This is our opportunity to lead this idea for the community," said Moss. "Citizens will be introduced to hiking, kayaking, canoeing, biking and camping."

The indoor part of the facility will include adventure rooms for youth and adults (climbing walls and cargo netting), party rooms, group lecture hall, group activity and a main exhibit hall. It will also highlight school-based curriculum in order to attract local students and field trip visits.

Some of the pool improvements include the addition of slides to the aquatic area, replacement of the baby pool with a splash pad, pool expansion with zero-depth entry area and child activity area and two sand volleyball courts.

Since its inception in 1986, the Christy-Houston Foundation has contributed funding to numerous projects throughout Rutherford County.