The Pinnacle Centre, a new $75 million multi-purpose leisure and wellness facility, officially opened its doors in Northwood Hills on Tuesday. The project, developed by Apex Community Investments, is expected to create approximately 150 new full-time and part-time jobs and provide extensive recreational resources for the region.
The opening marks the completion of a two-year construction project aimed at revitalizing the city's east district and promoting community health. Local officials, including Mayor Evelyn Reed, attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, highlighting the center's importance for regional development and public well-being.
Key Takeaways
- A new $75 million leisure and wellness facility, the Pinnacle Centre, has opened in Northwood Hills.
- The center's opening has created approximately 150 new local jobs.
- Key facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, indoor sports courts, a fitness center, and a community health hub.
- The project is a key part of a broader urban revitalization strategy for the city's east district.
A New Landmark for Community Health
The Pinnacle Centre is designed to serve as a central hub for health, fitness, and community engagement in Northwood Hills. The facility spans over 120,000 square feet and was constructed on a formerly underutilized industrial site, representing a significant investment in the area's infrastructure.
During the opening ceremony, Mayor Evelyn Reed spoke about the center's anticipated impact. She emphasized its role in providing accessible wellness opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities.
"This is more than just a building; it is an investment in the health and future of our community," Mayor Reed stated. "The Pinnacle Centre will offer world-class facilities that were previously unavailable in our city, encouraging active lifestyles and bringing families together."
The project was funded through a public-private partnership between the City of Northwood Hills and Apex Community Investments, a firm specializing in urban redevelopment projects. According to city records, the partnership structure allowed the large-scale project to proceed without placing the entire financial burden on taxpayers.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The center boasts a wide range of amenities designed to cater to diverse interests. Visitors will have access to a variety of modern equipment and spaces, which are central to the facility's mission of promoting comprehensive wellness.
The main attractions include:
- An Olympic-sized swimming pool: A 50-meter, 10-lane pool suitable for competitive swimming events, lessons, and public lap swimming.
- Multi-sport courts: Four full-size courts equipped for basketball, volleyball, and badminton.
- A two-story fitness center: Featuring over 200 pieces of modern cardio and strength-training equipment.
- Dedicated studios: Spaces for group fitness classes such as yoga, cycling, and dance.
- A community health hub: Offering services like physical therapy and nutritional counseling in partnership with local healthcare providers.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
One of the most significant outcomes of the Pinnacle Centre's opening is its contribution to the local economy. The creation of 150 jobs provides a substantial boost to employment in Northwood Hills. Roles range from facility management and fitness instruction to administrative and maintenance positions.
James Caldwell, CEO of Apex Community Investments, discussed the economic benefits during the launch event. He noted that the hiring process prioritized local candidates to ensure the community directly benefits from the investment.
"Our goal was not only to build a premier facility but also to foster sustainable economic growth," Caldwell explained. "By hiring locally, we are ensuring that this $75 million investment circulates back into the Northwood Hills economy, supporting local families."
The city's economic development office projects that the center will generate an additional $5 million in annual economic activity through visitor spending and operational expenditures. This includes revenue from hosting regional sports tournaments and other events, which are expected to draw visitors from surrounding areas.
Community Access and Programs
Ensuring broad community access was a core principle in the center's design and operational planning. The management has introduced a tiered membership structure to accommodate different income levels, including subsidized options for low-income families and seniors.
According to the center's program director, Sarah Jenkins, the facility will offer a wide array of programs targeting different age groups. These include youth sports leagues, senior fitness classes, and family-oriented weekend activities.
"We want everyone to feel welcome here," Jenkins said. "Our programming is designed to be inclusive. We will have 'learn to swim' programs for children, gentle fitness for seniors, and competitive leagues for adults. The goal is to be a true community resource."
The center has also established partnerships with local schools to provide students with access to its facilities for physical education and after-school sports. This initiative is expected to benefit over 5,000 students in the Northwood Hills Unified School District annually.
Future Development and Regional Significance
The opening of the Pinnacle Centre is seen as a catalyst for further development in the east district. Apex Community Investments has already announced plans for a second phase of development on adjacent land, which will include retail spaces and a public park.
This project positions Northwood Hills as a regional leader in public wellness infrastructure. Officials from neighboring cities have reportedly expressed interest in the public-private partnership model used to fund and execute the project.
As the center begins its operations, local residents and officials remain optimistic about its long-term impact. The facility represents a significant step forward in the city's efforts to enhance quality of life, promote economic stability, and build a healthier, more connected community.