According to Recreation Superintendent Jason West, construction designs for a new Nature Center building are underway.

“Currently the City Council has approved for staff to begin preliminary design for the construction of a new Nature Center building. This is just the one of the very first steps to the process of constructing a new building. City Council has authorization every step of the way,” West said.

Sophomore Daniel Hunegs said constructing a new building will attract more visitors to the Nature Center.

“I think it will help build community, and also bring more visitors to the center,” Hunegs said. “Once the building is done, I would go see it with some friends.”

West said a new Nature Center building will help improve the quality of experience of the visitors as well as the employees.

“The current Westwood Hills Nature Center interpretive building was constructed in 1980. The building is functionally obsolete and is no longer serving the needs of the community,” West said. “The new building will be more energy efficient and will improve capacity for programming. It will provide space for the public for non-formal programming which are exhibits, animal displays, static displays, etcetera and improve workspace for staff.”

Junior Eva Arago said a new main building provides a way to unite our community through nature.

“I think that a new building will allow there to be more learning opportunities for school groups,” Arago said. “I think that with a new building and more exhibits our community can get more informed and united. It is important that we learn about Nature and this new building is an outlet to get us more connected with nature.”

According to West, several different renovations will be made if construction plans are approved.

“(Construction will consist of) three classrooms that could open up for a larger space, improving access to the public for restrooms and welcoming area while the building is closed, improving adequate parking and improving access to the building,” West said.

West said the effect renovation will have on guests will be kept minimal during construction.

“The hope is to still operate in the current Interpretive Center while the other building is being constructed. Once construction is completed then the current building would be demolished and that site will be utilized as an outdoor programming facility,” West said.

Arago said she plans to visit the new main building when construction is complete.

“I’m very interested to see how (the building) will change and what cool new stuff they’ll have,” Arago said.

The hours of the Westwood Hills Nature Center are 8:00 a.m.-4:30 pm Monday – Friday and 12:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m. on weekends.