Sugar Land officials are exploring options to expand the T.E. Harman Center as the existing space reaches capacity with the city’s growing senior population.
The big picture
At a June 23 workshop meeting, Sugar Land City Council heard three options to renovate or replace the T.E. Harman Center, which is home to a variety of programs and weekday activities for senior adults age 50 and older.
The current center, located at 226 Matlage Way, has a current maximum capacity of 300 to 350 program occupancy, said Kimberly Terrell, who serves as Sugar Land's parks and recreation director.
Residents are able to get an annual membership for $25, while nonresidents will pay $191, according to the city’s website.
The details
The proposed scenarios—which are a result of a three-year study with BRW Architects—come as the center has seen a 300% increase in memberships since 2011, Terrell said. Additionally, the program participation has doubled in the last five years and has seen capacity challenges with waitlists.
Scenario A includes renovations to the existing space as well as adding an 10,800-square-foot space to the building, which would bring the total space to 21,554 square feet.
The scenario would bring the program occupancy to 765 featuring two multipurpose rooms, three classrooms, gathering space, game room, exercise room, library and storage.
However, the existing space would need to be closed for construction for 12 to 18 months.
Meanwhile, Scenario B leaves the existing space untouched and would include the construction of a 19,800-square-foot building, which would bring the program occupancy to 765. The building would include two multipurpose rooms, a classroom and gathering space as well as a larger game room, exercise room, library and more storage.
Additionally, Scenario C would also include the construction of a new 30,150-square-foot space with a 980 program occupancy. The third option—which is designed for future needs—includes two large multipurpose rooms, three classrooms, a double height gathering space, larger game room, exercise room and library as well as an indoor walking trail.
Project additions could include a pool pavilion and pickleball courts for an additional cost.
Why it matters
The proposed changes come as the city continues to see its population age, with a 119.31% growth in its 65-plus population from 9,658 in 2014 to 21,181 in 2024, according to five-year estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey.
Looking ahead
City Council showed preference to scenarios B and C as residents previously raised concerns about closure during construction.
City officials will need to determine a funding source for the center before proceeding.
