Fishers Community Center Brings Wellness, Connection & Pride to Residents
When the doors open to the brand-new Fishers Community Center this fall, residents will discover much more than just a recreation facility. Designed as a vibrant hub for wellness, connection and community pride, the $60M project is the culmination of years of planning, surveys and collaboration between city leaders and residents.
“We had more than 3,000 residents respond to our community survey,” says Mike Lindbloom, Director of the Fishers Community Center. “The number-one requested amenity was an indoor walking track. That simple but powerful request became a centerpiece of the design.”
The two-story facility strikes a balance between free public spaces and member-only amenities. Families can take advantage of a sprawling indoor play structure, a public café and reservable community rooms at no cost. But the real wow factors await members.
Among the highlights is a 25-yard lap pool and a warmer leisure pool with a zero-depth entry, handrails and aquatic wheelchairs, making it accessible for all abilities. Above the water hovers the Ninja Cross system, a unique feature resembling a scaled-down “American Ninja Warrior” course.
“It’s one of the only ones in the Midwest,” said Jake Reardon McSoley, Director of Recreation and Wellness for the City of Fishers. “It’s going to be a big draw for both kids and adults.”
Beyond aquatics, members can enjoy an 18,000-square-foot indoor gymnasium with basketball, volleyball and pickleball courts, three group exercise studios and an 11,000-square-foot fitness center filled with state-of-the-art equipment, including a sauna.
From the outset, accessibility was a key consideration in the project. The city consulted with Fishers’ Advisory Committee on Disability and a national accessibility consultant to ensure the facility truly serves everyone.
The center features 10 ADA-accessible universal locker rooms, a special adult changing room with a full-size table and accessible fitness equipment throughout the building. Automatic sliding doors were added following community input, and a drive-up drop-off lane facilitates easier entry for individuals with limited mobility.
“We wanted to make sure this facility works for everyone, regardless of age or ability,” Reardon McSoley says. “It’s not just about physical health. It’s about dignity, comfort and inclusion.”
More than just a fitness facility, the community center also houses the Fishers Health Department, giving the department a permanent home after several moves. Its central location, near 121st Street and Hoosier Road, was intentionally chosen so all residents can reach it within a 10-minute drive.
“We want this to be the heart of the community,” Lindbloom says. “It’s about giving people a place to connect, improve their health and strengthen the quality of life in Fishers.”
City leaders also anticipate collaborations with local schools and organizations. Hoosier Road Elementary, directly across the street, is already planning joint programs.
“This facility isn’t just for today,” Reardon McSoley adds. “It’s a platform for partnerships and innovation for decades to come.”
With a facility of this size, traffic was a significant concern from the outset. To ease flow, the city constructed a new roundabout at 121st and Hoosier Road and is completing a multi-use trail system to connect pedestrians and cyclists.
In the long term, leaders also plan for growth and sustainability. A phase-two expansion could include an outdoor aquatic center and an open-air rooftop fitness and yoga space.
“We built this facility with the next 20 years in mind,” Lindbloom says. “It’s designed to evolve with the community.”
The facility will also feature a two-acre dog park, slated to open in late spring 2026. Memberships will be offered separately for the park, which includes dedicated areas for small and large dogs.
The funding for the center came from city-issued bonds, ensuring local taxes will not increase for residents. City officials project the facility will be financially self-sustaining by year three.
“We’ve built a business plan that ensures operational sustainability,” Reardon McSoley says. “This is an investment in our community’s future that won’t place an extra burden on residents.”
As the Fishers Community Center prepares to open, the excitement is growing. Grand-opening festivities on Nov. 1 will include activities for families, student performances and a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the beginning of a new era for the community.
“We’re seeing incredible momentum and excitement,” Lindbloom says. “This is more than a building. It’s a commitment to health, wellness and togetherness in Fishers.”
The Fishers Community Center, with its blend of innovative amenities, thoughtful inclusivity and long-term vision, is set to become the heart of a thriving, active community.
For more information, visit fisherscommunitycenter.com or follow the city’s social media channels.
