Fitness Center may move to CEC building

Fitness center may move to CEC building

New Prague Area Schools (NPAS), the City of New Prague and Mayo Clinic Health System (MCHS) are in ongoing discussions regarding a fitness partnership in New Prague.

Earlier this year, NPAS leadership contacted Mayo Clinic Health System officials about their plan to add fitness services to the Aquatic Center. The discussions evolved into a proposal for NPAS to renovate space adjacent to, or near, the indoor pool at the Central Education Campus to develop cardio and weight rooms, as well as group fitness studios. The newly renovated space, along with the existing community room, indoor pool and gymnasium, would become a multigenerational fitness and aquatic center, replacing Mayo Clinic Health System in New Prague’s Fitness Center. Going forward, the new facility would be owned and managed through the existing joint powers agreement between the City of New Prague and NPAS. The current Fitness Center facility will continue to be used for Mayo Clinic Health System Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation services.

“We’re excited about the possibility of working with Mayo Clinic Health System to meet the wellness needs of the New Prague area,” says New Prague School Superintendent Tim Dittberner. “I feel it will create a win-win scenario for the community residents, the school district and Mayo Clinic Health System.”

“We have a unique opportunity to develop a collaborative approach to a joint community fitness initiative,” says Mike Johnson, New Prague city administrator. “I hope the joint powers board, city council and NPAS board can give serious consideration to this possible joint venture.”

While nothing is finalized, discussions are advancing to the approval stage. Mayo Clinic Health System has reviewed and approved the school’s plan. Additional approvals are being sought from the school board and city council. If approved by the school board and city council, all three entities will collaborate to further develop and implement plans.

“We firmly believe this new approach to health and wellness services in New Prague will be great for our community,” says Mary Klimp, Mayo Clinic Health System regional vice chair of administration. “Not only will the partnership expand options, it will result in a multigenerational fitness and aquatic community center and will leverage expertise from multiple entities to benefit community members.”

Mayo Clinic Health System in New Prague’s Fitness Center remains open and available for members while the partnership discussions continue.