Southern Prairie Activity and Recreation Center (SPARC) Updates

This page serves as the official information page for the proposed Wahpeton Recreation and Wellness Center until a facility website is created.

A 1% sales, use, and gross receipts tax was approved by a vote of Wahpeton residents on April 29, 2025 for the purpose of building a community recreation and wellness facility.

Updates:

  • The City Council voted to name the facility the Southern Prairie Activity and Recreation Center (SPARC) on 1/20/26.
  • A website solely devoted to the SPARC is in the process of being created and will be up and running in the spring of 2026.
  • The city is currently working with JLG Architects on the planning/design of the facility.
  • City Council voted to discontinue negotiations with NDSCS regarding the college land at the corner of 11th Street and 14th Avenue North on 3/2/26 (more below).

At the City Council meeting on 3/2/26, the council voted to end plans to place the SPARC on NDSCS land and do an immediate search for a better location. The land NDSCS was considering as rental space is not big enough for the SPARC amenities being planned. There would also be no room for expansion in the future, and parking would be limited.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 When and where will the SPARC be built?

The SPARC is scheduled to begin construction in 2027. A lease agreement between the city and NDSCS is in the works that would allow the center to be built on the college land at the Northeast corner of 11th Street and 14th Avenue North.

 

What will be included in the SPARC?

Final inclusions are yet to be determined (based on construction costs), but considerations for an indoor playground, basketball courts, walking track, practice turf, water feature, fitness area and studio, public gathering space, commercial kitchen, and senior citizen meeting area have been discussed.

 

What's the cost of the SPARC?

Estimates vary depending on what's included and changing construction costs. Currently, it's believed that the final cost would be between $16 million and $30 million.

 

How is the SPARC being funded?

The 1% sales tax voted in by the public in April of 2025 will be used to fund a majority of the project. Donations and sponsorship will also play a part in the overall project.

 

Can I donate and/or be a sponsor of the SPARC?

Yes, donations and sponsorships are welcome. Information on those will be coming soon.