POST FALLS — The Black Bay Depot activity center is emerging from the former Post Falls Senior Center Thrift Store.

The city is transforming the former thrift store behind the senior center at 1211 E. Third Ave., across from Black Bay Park, into a recreation center that will open up activities such as dancing, gymnastics and adult fitness activities.

"We are excited about the new facility to allow us to grow our programs and expand our offerings to the community," said Traci Stevenson, Post Falls recreation manager.

"We are currently busting at the seams and are in desperate need of facilities to enhance our preschool offerings, exercise classes, dance programs and more. We already have lots of exciting opportunities planned."

The project includes remodeling the interior into two rooms — a 1,100-square-foot classroom and a 1,650-square-foot activity room.

Between the two rooms will be a 360-square-foot observation room for parents and caregivers to watch classroom activities and enhance the experience and safety for patrons.

On the outside, two small artificial turf soccer fields, a trail connecting the Centennial Trail to the parking lot, a train-themed playground, a garden patio, bench seating and a retaining wall are planned.

Construction on the remodel is underway with the planned opening of the indoor facility this winter. The turf and children's play area will be completed by late fall.

"It’s possible some remaining landscaping could extend to spring 2020 if winter weather sets in early," said Bryan Myers, Post Falls parks manager.

Last year, the city purchased the building and the .92 acres it sits on for $275,000 from the senior center.

The remodel and new amenities are being funded with park impact fees.

The project is broken down across two budget items and across two fiscal years. The interior remodel budget is $250,000 and the exterior park space and parking lot upgrade budget is $250,000 in fiscal 2019 and $185,000 in fiscal 2020.