Nestled in the heart of Central Florida, the City of Winter Haven is a vibrant and forward-thinking community renowned for its commitment to growth, inclusivity, and quality of life. Known as “The Chain of Lakes City,” Winter Haven combines natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage, offering residents and visitors alike a unique and welcoming environment. With a strong emphasis on innovation and community engagement, the city has continually demonstrated its dedication to enhancing the lives of its citizens.
The Collage Companies is honored to be the Construction Manager for the new City of Winter Haven Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Center, a project that underscores our shared values of community building and progress. We’re proud to collaborate with our local Winter Haven-based partner, Everett Whitehead & Son, Inc. (Whitehead Construction), whose expertise and shared values make this project truly special. This collaboration represents an exciting opportunity to contribute to Winter Haven’s legacy of service and connection while bringing their transformative vision to life.
A Legacy of Community Service
The current WHRCC, built in 1974, has been a vital part of the northeast Winter Haven community for nearly five decades. Generations of children have attended their popular after-school programs and summer camps. It’s been a special place for families to host events, providing a gathering place for residents of all ages. The existing center, encompassing 3,134 square feet of general space and a 7,160-square-foot gymnasium, has seen countless memories and community activities. However, as the community’s needs have evolved, so too must the facilities that serve it.
A New Era Begins
The Collage Companies was awarded a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) contract for the demolition of the 50-year-old center and construction of the new facility. The CMAR project delivery method involves The Collage Companies overseeing the project from its design phase through to completion, ensuring that the community’s vision is realized efficiently and effectively.
The new 37,000-square-foot center will be a comprehensive hub of activity and resources. It will feature a double gymnasium, a fitness center, a community/activities area, a library/technology area, a business area, and a kitchen. Outside, residents can look forward to a new swimming pool, splash pad, playground, outdoor sports court, pavilions, landscaping, and open spaces. These amenities are designed to cater to a wide range of interests and needs, fostering a stronger, more connected community.
Project Details and Timeline
The demolition of the existing structure last summer marked the beginning of this transformative project. Next came the site work and laying the foundation for the new facility. This phase includes essential tasks such as grading, utility installations, and preparatory landscaping. The project has a targeted completion date of December 2025. This timeline includes full construction oversight services, ensuring that every detail meets the highest standards of quality and safety. At Collage, we “build projects that strengthen the fabric of our community.” If the project comes in under budget, 75% of the savings will be returned to the city, demonstrating our commitment to fiscal responsibility and community investment.
The project’s design, led by the architectural firm Straughn Trout Architects, reflects a deep understanding of the community’s needs and aspirations. During the construction phase, the City of Winter Haven has made provisions to ensure that summer camp plans, staffing needs, and other related activities continue without interruption. This careful planning underscores the city’s dedication to maintaining the services and programs that residents rely on, even as the new facility takes shape.
A Groundbreaking Celebration
Although the project is already under construction, a ceremonial groundbreaking event was held on January 3, bringing together the Mayor of Winter Haven, city officials, and other local dignitaries. During the ceremony, personal stories and connections were shared, highlighting the historical significance of the existing center and the impact it has had on the community it serves. Attendees reflected on the importance of this project for the neighborhood and looked forward to the future it promises to deliver. The event underscored the deep ties between the center and the people of Winter Haven, making this milestone even more meaningful.
A Vision for the Future
The new City of Winter Haven Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Center is more than just a building project; it is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. It will provide a modern, welcoming space where residents can come together to learn, play, and grow.
“It has been said that the true measure of any society can be found in how it values and invests in the enrichment of its people. With this project, we’re not just building a facility—we’re investing in the future of our community, and Collage is honored to be part of this significant undertaking.” said Rob Maphis, President of The Collage Companies.
