City Park & Rec Board Explores Potential Addition of Digital Sports Simulator at Wellness Center

{KXLG – Watertown, SD} The Prairie Lakes Wellness Center is “exploring” the potential idea of the addition of a multi-sport digital simulator to its facility, potentially converting one of its three underutilized racquetball courts.

Superintendent Theresa Hillis presented the initial concept to the City of Watertown Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Board at their meeting today, highlighting its potential to generate revenue and offer new recreational opportunities for families…

Hillis explained that the simulator would offer a variety of sports and games, including baseball, soccer, and even Frisbee golf, appealing to both adults and children…

Hillis shared that a rough break-even self-analysis suggests a potential upfront cost of around $25,000 for a comprehensive package. Based on estimated usage, she believes the investment could be recouped within a year. Her research included discussions with a former colleague at a facility in Chippewa Falls, WI, which has seen high usage of a similar simulator, even during non-peak times.

Hillis underlined the added benefit of providing family-friendly activities, especially during times when other areas of the Wellness Center, like the pool, have limited hours. She also suggested the possibility of incorporating the simulator into birthday party rentals and offering package deals.

Board members expressed interest in the concept, with Bruce Buhler inquiring about the equipment’s removability…

Hillis assured the board that she is still in the research phase, gathering information on pricing, maintenance, and vendor reliability. Once her research is complete, she plans to share links and further details with the board.

Please note that this is currently just a conceptual idea presented to the Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Board. Superintendent Hillis will return to the board at a future meeting with more detailed information, including potential costs, vendor proposals, and further analysis, for their consideration.