As part of a larger greenway project, the Horne-Henry Center helps transform a blighted area of the community into a vibrant recreational complex that also features a municipal outdoor aquatic center, a small park, a bike path and a component of a 32-mile nature trail.
A core design goal was to put on display the vibrancy of all activities taking place within the center and thus inspire visitors to take part — starting at the inviting, two-story front vestibule, which is encircled by a suspended track that continues past the aerobics rooms, lap and leisure pools, fitness areas and gymnasium.
Flexibility is one of the facility?s key features. Sophisticated active-matrix scoreboard and timing system technology allows for the hosting of YMCA and Iowa state high school swim meets. Racquetball courts, too, offer spectator seating. When not in use for tournaments, these spaces are modified to host specially designed fitness programs. One such room accommodates 30-minute workouts for the workday lunch crowd.
The comfortable and energy-efficient facility features an abundance of natural lighting and geothermal heating throughout. A geothermal well system cools public spaces and heats the domestic water supply and both swimming pools.
