Categories: Community DevelopmentPublished On: June 29th, 2018

The term “excited” falls short of expressing the community’s reaction to the long awaited opening of the CORE (Center of Recreational Excellence)!

Planning for this impressive facility started twenty years ago and survived turnovers of 6 mayors, 6 city managers, 3 school superintendents, and 4 college presidents!  A project has to be exceptionally worthwhile to survive so many changes in leadership.  The Foundation was the single constant in the CORE’s development, but this magnificent facility only became possible when a partnership was formed with the City of Hobbs, New Mexico Junior College, Hobbs Municipal Schools, Lea County, the University of the Southwest, and the State of New Mexico.  The CORE is the outcome of the largest collaboration of public and private entities in the history of the state of New Mexico.

This $62.5 million project offers something for everyone throughout Lea County and the surrounding communities.  It’s a place for fun, competitive athletics, exercise, meetings, recreation, and family time.

The CORE will significantly enhance the quality of life in our community, as well as entertain visitors.  It will redefine recreation on a regional level.  The CORE will join the new Boys & Girls Club, Teen Center, Lovington Highway Trail, Rockwind Community LINKS, 24 municipal parks, the Lea County Center for the Arts, the Western Heritage Museum, an active portfolio of arts & culture programming, and many other local recreational/cultural assets combining to make this community an especially great place to live!