Taylor community center exceeds expectations

City officials reported Monday that the Robert L. Taylor Community Center has six times the number of pass holders it expected after three months of operations.

“I couldn’t have imagined we would have this turnout and this diversity, people from all walks of life from Sarasota and beyond, so fast,” said Community Complex Manager Jerry Fogle, in a news release.

Since the center opened on Sept. 2, 1,214 residents are pass holders. Based on data from other municipal recreational facilities in Florida, staff estimated there would be about 200 pass holders at this time.

“It’s popular because of the equipment here, the facility itself, the staff and the rates,” Fogle said.

Approximately 60% of pass holders live within the city of Sarasota, a handful reside in Manatee County and the remainder are from Sarasota County.

The most popular is the family full access pass, which, at $34 per month, allows unlimited use for an entire family. Many other pass options are available with affordable rates to meet the community’s needs.

New programming and youth programs will also be introduced next year.

For more information, contact Fogle at 954-4182, ext. 3310.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at kschultheis@yourobserver.com.