Lee Board of County Commissioners voted Nov. 5 to accept $1.1 million in grant funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to furnish a computer lab, upgrade Wi-Fi and audiovisual equipment and expand broadband service to North Fort Myers Recreation Center, 2000 North Recreation Park Way.
The grant supports the installation of fiber optic broadband internet service at the rec center. It will enhance existing Wi-Fi by adding access points and creating a computer lab within an existing classroom. Audiovisual equipment in the multipurpose rooms, weight room and sports venues will be upgraded and expanded.
Currently, the recreation center offers broadband access at 50 Mbps, which will be upgraded to 250 Mbps. Broadband access will also be extended to the 4H annex and maintenance buildings. Inside the recreation center, the Wi-Fi system will feature 12 access points to ensure reliable coverage throughout the 33,000-square-foot facility, while the 4H annex and maintenance building will each receive one access point to enhance connectivity in those areas.
The new computer lab will be equipped with 12 all-in-one desktop computers, AV equipment and furniture to accommodate a classroom for 11 students and a teacher.
