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A Free Community Newspaper Published Bimonthly by the Northside Planning Council

WARNER PARK COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER

Zach Watson - WPCRC Facility Manager
By Zach Watson
WPCRC Facility Manager
Published: January 24, 2026

The Warner Park Community Recreation Center’s first phase of the expansion project has taken shape, and we are delighted to begin opening spaces to the public as they become accessible. Coming soon is WPCRC’s all-new fitness and pickleball court pass, designed to offer you the best affordable access.

The new fitness center space overlooks Warner Park and features all-new flooring, new equipment, as well as classic favorites. There are annual and 6-month membership(s) and a 20-visit pass available that include use of the fitness center and pickleball courts coming soon.

As we reopen new spaces, we remind all visitors they are required to change into appropriate gym shoes before entering the gym or fitness center. Please feel free to change your shoes in our lobby or locker room. No food or beverages are allowed, but water bottles are acceptable. Youth ages 12–17 must be accompanied by an adult, and youth under age 12 are not allowed in the fitness center at any time.

The all-new fitness center will feature treadmills, ellipticals, NuStep, recumbent and upright bikes, and rowers, plus TRX suspension trainers, multi-strength trainers, dumbbells, kettlebells, medicine balls, mats and benches.

The WPCRC’s KNOW Program is excited to roll out programs and events designed to support, empower, and bring our youth and families together in 2026. Our gym is now open and youth open gym is weekdays, 4–6 pm, and family open gym is Saturday mornings, 8 am–12 pm. (Gym schedules are subject to change.)

Beginning in May, we will offer a free 8-week Hair Braiding and Eyelash Extension class for youth ages 11–18 who are currently in middle or high school. This hands-on class will introduce participants to creative and entrepreneurial skills in a supportive environment.

Starting this spring, we will host Late Night Basketball on select Saturday evenings from 9 pm–12 am, providing a safe, positive space for youth age 17 and older to stay active and connected.

We’re also proud to continue our popular Family Fun Nights, scheduled for Feb. 13, March 13, April 10, May 8, June 12, Sept. 18, Oct. 30, Nov. 20, and Dec. 11, from 5:30–7:30 pm. These evenings will include face painting, arts and crafts, bouncy houses, movies, food options, and bingo for the whole family to enjoy.

This summer, WPCRC’s KNOW Program will offer another Girls Mentorship and Boys Mentorship groups for middle and high school youth, focused on building self-esteem, teamwork and essential life skills.

For details about any upcoming programs, contact WPCRC Program Coordinator Marquis Sanders at msanders@cityofmadison.com.

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