ENTERPRISE, Ala. (WDNews) — The City of Enterprise is celebrating statewide recognition after its Parks and Recreation Department received two awards from the Alabama Recreation and Parks Association during the 2025 ARPA State Conference.
The Enterprise Recreation and Aquatics Center was named ARPA’s Outstanding Facility of the Year in the category for agencies serving populations of 15,001 or more. In addition, Blake Moore, director of community services and recreation, was honored as Professional of the Year in Recreation.
“These awards reflect the dedication, vision, and professionalism of the Enterprise Parks and Recreation team,” Mayor William E. Cooper said. “From facilities to programming, this department continues to provide exceptional opportunities and experiences for our residents.”
The Outstanding Facility of the Year award recognizes excellence in design, construction, community impact and long-term sustainability. The Enterprise Recreation and Aquatics Center opened in February 2025 and was built to address a long-standing community need. The $32 million, 70,000-square-foot facility is the largest municipal facility in the city.
The center includes a four-court gymnasium designed for basketball, pickleball and volleyball, which connects to the renovated Moose Hope Gym. The older gym was upgraded with air conditioning and cosmetic improvements. The facility also features strength and cardio rooms, a concession stand, restrooms and administrative offices.
Outdoor amenities include a general swim and competition pool with six 25-yard lanes, zero-depth entry and a water play structure. Family-friendly locker rooms on the pool deck offer private showers and changing areas.
“With the support of the Mayor and City Council, and the collaboration of City staff across multiple departments, including City Engineer Barry Mott, the Recreation and Aquatics Center came together as a true team effort from groundbreaking through ribbon cutting,” Moore said. “Whaley Construction and Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects also played key roles in bringing the facility to life, creating a space that now benefits residents across the community.”
During its first year of operation, the center welcomed more than 30,000 visitors and hosted the 2025 ARPA State Volleyball Tournament, which set a participation record.
“This facility represents one of the most significant investments the City of Enterprise has made in quality of life,” Cooper said. “It serves families, athletes, and residents of all ages, and helps position Enterprise as a destination for regional recreation and tourism.”
Moore was also recognized for his leadership and innovation. He has served the City of Enterprise since 2016 and has played a key role in expanding youth and community programming, overseeing the transition into the new recreation complex and advancing citywide initiatives including Parks and Recreation, Main Street Enterprise and Visit Enterprise.
“This award highlights the creativity and dedication our Parks and Recreation staff bring to every program and facility,” Moore said. “I’m proud of the team’s positive impact on the community, and grateful for the support that allows us to continue improving and expanding opportunities for all residents.”
“Blake has demonstrated the kind of leadership and commitment we value in Enterprise,” Cooper said. “This recognition reflects the progress he has made so far and the strong foundation he is building for continued success.”
City officials said the awards coincide with the one-year anniversary of the Enterprise Recreation and Aquatics Center, noting the honors reflect careful planning, community input and a long-term vision for serving residents for decades to come.
