DVIDS – News – The City Center Community Activity Center opens its doors

The dedication ceremony for the City Center Community Activity Center marks a milestone in Fort Wainwright's efforts to improve the quality of life for soldiers, families and civilians.

The event, chaired by Col. Jason Cole, garrison commander, U.S. Army Garrison Alaska, Fort Wainwright, is a testament to years of collaboration and hard work that led to the center's official opening just in time for the winter break and block holiday.

“This has been a long time coming,” said Rick Bosch, director of family and morale, welfare and recreation. “I think we probably have some residual benefit from living about seven and a half miles from Santa’s house because Christmas came early at Fort Wainwright this year.”

The $41.5 million project began in 2019 after discussions and focus groups identified community needs. The 39,625 square meter facility offers a wide range of leisure facilities:

• A large indoor playground and play area for toddlers.
• An obstacle course and kinesthetic interactive games.
• A multi-purpose room for events and programs.
• A fitness room for the whole family.
• A modern bowling center with 16 lanes.
• Virtual reality games, pool tables, arcades and more.
• An outdoor terrace for summer events, party rooms and a catering establishment with a full bar.

“This facility is purposefully designed for connection, relaxation and well-being,” Cole said. “It will be a place where families can come together, friendships can grow and memories can be made for years to come.”

The new center reflects Fort Wainwright's commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and resilience. With a focus on strengthening community bonds, it provides a central hub for relaxation, fitness and social interaction.

“Our goal was not just to build a facility, but to create a space that people would actually want to spend time in,” Bosch said. “We wanted a place where soldiers could relax after a long day, where families could come together and friendships could develop.”

The center is part of Fort Wainwright's downtown development plan, which also includes the upcoming opening of the Aquatics Center and the upcoming fieldhouse, scheduled to open in 2026. Improved sidewalks will connect these facilities and create an accessible hub for community activities.

“This city center concept is for everyone,” Cole said. “From soldiers and their families to retirees and civilians, everyone has a place here.”

The center's opening is timed to coincide with the colder months, providing indoor spaces where the community can gather without the worry of the harsh Alaskan winter.

“The timing of this opening is very important, especially as winter begins and our Soldiers and families need a warm, welcoming place to gather,” Bosch said.

The facility also provides employment opportunities for Fort Wainwright. Positions are available for chefs, bartenders, recreation workers and more.

“We have options for food and beverage service, cooking, recreational activities – even bartending if you have a thing for Tom Cruise cocktails,” Bosch added.

During the opening ceremony, Bosch welcomed participants and thanked the teams that brought the center to life. Cole delivered a speech before distinguished guests, including Deputy Garrison Commander Richard Fromm II, Command Sgt. Maj. Roberto Franco and Business and Recreation Officer Angela Coltellaro joined him for the ribbon cutting.

“This isn’t just a building – it’s a promise,” Bosch said. “A promise to our Soldiers, their families and the entire Fort Wainwright community that we are committed to their well-being.”

In addition to providing a recreational space, the center also serves as a venue for events, parties and programs that support the broader community. With flexible, multi-purpose spaces and a layout designed for adaptability, the center can host everything from birthday parties to large community gatherings.

Fort Wainwright leadership emphasized the importance of community investment in improving morale and readiness.

“Investments like this center show our Soldiers and their families that we care about their well-being and quality of life,” Cole said. “It’s not just about the physical space – it’s about what happens in it.”

“I encourage all of you here today to explore, enjoy and make this space your own,” Cole added.

For more information about the center or employment opportunities, visit wainwright.armymwr.com or USAjobs.gov.