JK Scanlan to Begin Construction on Hyannis Youth & Community Center

By Robert Gold, Cape Cod Times Staff Writer

Construction should start this month on the Hyannis Youth and Community Center, paving the way for a multi-purpose recreational haven.

The long planned center, which would eventually replace the Kennedy Memorial Skating Rink, could be complete by the fall of 2009, said project manager John Juros.

The town’s building committee approved Falmouth-based JK Scanlon Co. as the general construction contractor.

Work should start by the middle of this month, Juros said.

When finished, the nearly $25 million project will feature two ice rinks, a teen center with a computer room, eight locker rooms, offices for the recreational departments, a meeting room, a pro shop, snack shop, a competition sized basketball court with stands, and a three length elevated track.

The basketball court will be able to be switched into two side by side courts by moving the stands.

Last year, the town redesigned the building to add a bigger gym and more seating for the ice rinks. The town hopes that will draw traveling hockey teams, and will let the arena host hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions and ice shows.

The main rink will be surrounded by 1,500 seats.

“It will have an impact as a gateway into the community,” Juros said about the center on Bearse’s Way and Bassett Lane.

The Kennedy Memorial Rink, a hockey hot spot, will be demolished after the new 105,000 square foot building is built, Juros said.