Valpo Community Invited to Help Shape the Future of Valpo REC
- By: City of Valparaiso
- Last Updated: January 20, 2026
Help shape the future of Valpo REC, the multi-generational indoor recreation and enrichment center in the heart of Valparaiso! Valpo Parks invites residents, users and stakeholders to share their ideas and priorities as planning moves forward on the Valpo REC project which will transform the city’s last remaining empty industrial site into a year
round, multi-purpose facility designed to be a central hub for the community. The Valpo REC will offer diverse sports programs, interactive play areas and educational opportunities, all within a single, dynamic campus. The Valpo REC is committed to providing a vibrant, welcoming space that fosters health, wellness, and community connection for all residents and visitors.
To ensure the project reflects the needs and aspirations of the community, Valpo Parks has launched a comprehensive set of public surveys and encourages broad participation by March 1.
“Whether you’re interested in youth sports, active adult options, activity programming or community gathering spaces, your voice matters,” said Mayor Jon Costas. “This input will directly inform the design, amenities and programming of Valpo REC for generations to come.”
The six-week engagement window includes the following surveys:
- Community Survey
- Active Senior/Adult Survey
- Sports Programming Survey
- Outdoor Amenities Survey
- Rental Space Survey
- General Comments Form, allowing participants to share additional ideas or feedback
All surveys are designed to be user-friendly and can be completed online. Residents are encouraged to participate in as many surveys as are relevant to their interests and experiences. “This is a rare opportunity to help shape a once-in-a-generation project in the center of our city,” Costas added. “The more voices we hear from, the stronger and more inclusive Valpo REC will be.”
Share Your Thoughts by March 1
Survey links and additional information about the Valpo REC project can be found at bit.ly/ValpoREC and social media channels Valpo Parks and Valparaiso Now.
