Montpelier Recreation Center and Library

- 15302 Clazemont Rd, Montpelier, VA 23192

For residents of Virginia, particularly in Hanover County, finding a community space that combines fitness, recreation, and educational resources is a significant benefit. A facility that can serve multiple purposes—from a place to work out to a spot for learning—becomes a central hub for local life. In a rural setting where such amenities might be sparse, a new, well-equipped center can be a game-changer for the entire community. Hanover County has recently unveiled such a facility, a testament to what can be achieved when a community works together to build a space that meets diverse needs.

The Montpelier Recreation Center and Library is a state-of-the-art facility that represents a new era of connection and learning for Western Hanover. This 20,000-square-foot building is the first of its kind in the county, placing a full-service library and a modern recreation center under one roof. The mission is to provide a safe and affordable space for a variety of programs and services, catering to individuals of all ages and interests. While the facility is a valuable resource, it is important for potential users to understand that its primary focus is on serving the residents and taxpayers of Hanover County. This focus is a point of contention for those in neighboring communities, but it underscores the center’s commitment to its core mission and the people who fund its operations.

The Montpelier Recreation Center and Library is located at 15302 Clazemont Rd, Montpelier, VA 23192, USA. This location makes it a central point for residents of Montpelier and the surrounding areas within Hanover County. As a newly constructed facility, it was designed with modern standards of accessibility in mind. The center offers a variety of amenities to ensure it is a welcoming space for all, including a basketball court, classroom, community meeting space, and study rooms. Additionally, an adjacent rebuilt Wickham Field for baseball and softball is expected to be completed, further expanding the recreational options.

The Montpelier Recreation Center and Library provides a wide array of services that extend beyond a simple gym. The facility is a multi-purpose hub designed to serve the community’s diverse needs. The services are primarily facilitated by Hanover County Parks and Recreation and the Pamunkey Regional Library. These services include:

• Full-Size Gymnasium: The gymnasium is a central feature, designed to support a wide range of programs and activities. It is available for drop-in play during unscheduled hours and is used for scheduled open gym programs. The gym has permanent court markings for basketball, pickleball, and volleyball.

• Recreation Programs: The center offers various recreation programs and classes for all ages, including fitness and exercise classes, youth sports, and other athletic activities. A RecPass is required for access to open gym programs, which is available free of charge to eligible Hanover County residents and must be renewed annually.

• Library Services: The new library branch is three times larger than the former one and offers a collection of over 13,000 volumes. It includes a large meeting room, quiet study rooms, a children's area, and public computers. The library serves as a hub for learning and a variety of community events.

• Community Meeting Spaces: The facility includes classrooms and a community meeting space. These rooms support a wide range of programs and are also available for public use by eligible entities such as educational groups, non-profits, and civic organizations. This service allows the center to be a central location for community gatherings and education.

The Montpelier Recreation Center and Library's appeal lies in its modern design, dual purpose, and its role as a key community resource. Its standout features include:

• State-of-the-Art Facility: The center is a brand new, purpose-built facility that combines a library and a recreation center under one roof. This innovative design makes it a one-stop-shop for both mental and physical wellness.

• Versatile Gymnasium: The full-size gymnasium is a major highlight, with court markings for multiple sports and an elevated stage for community events, movies, and performances. This versatility allows it to serve a variety of recreational and social purposes.

• Community-Focused Design: The facility includes a large library with a children's area and study rooms, making it a great place for families, students, and anyone looking for a quiet space to read or work. The classrooms and meeting rooms further emphasize its role as a community hub.

• Free RecPass Program: For Hanover County residents, a RecPass is available free of charge, providing access to open gym programs. This makes fitness and recreation an accessible and affordable option for local taxpayers and their families.

• Commitment to Hanover County Residents: The center's mission and policies prioritize the residents and taxpayers of Hanover County. While this has caused frustration for those outside the county, it ensures that the facility’s resources are directed toward the community that supports it.

For inquiries about programs, hours, or general information, you can contact the Montpelier Recreation Center and Library directly.

• Address: 15302 Clazemont Rd, Montpelier, VA 23192, USA

• Phone: (804) 883-5161

For residents of Hanover County, Virginia, the Montpelier Recreation Center and Library is an undeniably worthwhile choice. Its primary value lies in its modern, multi-purpose design. By combining a full-size gymnasium and a state-of-the-art library in one building, the center provides a centralized location for both physical and intellectual enrichment. This is a significant convenience for families who can pursue different activities—a child can play basketball while a parent studies or a sibling reads a book. The free RecPass for residents makes it an exceptionally affordable resource, removing the financial barrier that often comes with gym memberships and recreational programs.

The commitment to the local community is both a key feature and a reason to choose this facility. While a recent policy change has caused frustration among non-residents, the center’s focus on serving Hanover County taxpayers ensures that the investment in the facility benefits the people who fund it. The gymnasium is a versatile space that can be used for a variety of sports, and the library offers quiet study areas and a children’s section, making it a comprehensive resource for the entire family. Its newness, clean design, and strategic location in a rural part of the county fill a significant need for a high-quality community space. For Hanover County residents seeking a hub for fitness, learning, and community engagement, the Montpelier Recreation Center and Library is a premier destination.

Montpelier Recreation Center and Library

15302 Clazemont Rd, Montpelier, VA 23192, USA