The Manhattan City Commission on Tuesday committed to some big dollar improvements on both the north and south sides of the city.

First, in a 4 to 1 vote, the commission approved a $4.3 million construction contract for a new Douglass Recreation Center. It includes a $400,000 contingency, which came in under expectations. The center will be another piece in a complex of recreation buildings, featuring a 3-lane elevated track and programmable to accommodate an 84-foot basketball court, two NCAA volleyball courts and two pickleball courts alongside community and fitness rooms.

Mayor Mike Dodson says the walking and biking activity throughout that part of the community demonstrates a need in the area, adding it will be great for Manhattan.

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