What's New:
Community Center Open House | Join us August 26 from 4:30-6:30 at the Ray City Hall
The City of Ray invites residents and stakeholders to attend a Community Open House on Wednesday, August 26, to provide feedback on the proposed Ray Community Center. Community members are welcome anytime between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. at Ray City Hall, 101 Main Street. There will not be a formal presentation, but attendees will have an opportunity to speak with consultants and the project team.
The Community Center is one phase of the overall Ray Community Complex project. Other phases include the track and field area, baseball diamond, and aquatic space. Public input from Ray is essential to creating a space that meets the vision and needs of the multigenerational community while supporting quality of life and economic vitality.
Community members are encouraged to attend the open house to learn about the project process, ask questions, and share feedback on community center needs. Project consultant Interstate Engineering, along with EAPC Architects and PROS Consulting, will use the information gathered to help determine community priorities and inform recommendations for the overall project.
A Ray Community Center survey is currently available at raycommunitycomplex.com and will help guide the open house conversation. The survey closes August 20.
A project website has been established at raycommunitycomplex.com. The site serves as a hub for the Ray Community Complex project, providing updates, additional feedback opportunities, and project progress information.
The Ray Community Center Survey officially launched on July 31, 2026, and will remain open through August 20.
The survey focuses specifically on the future community center and seeks input on:
Community gathering spaces
Recreation amenities
Programs and services
Aquatic opportunities
Community priorities
Survey results will help guide recommendations and future design decisions.
The Ray Community Complex received a major funding milestone through the Williams County Rural Community Grant Program.
Funding awarded:
$100,000 in 2026
$500,000 in 2027
Total award: $600,000
The funds will support Phase I of the project, including development of the new track and field complex.
Project leaders noted that the investment will support student athletics, youth programs, community events, and regional competitions while helping advance the community's long-term vision.
The City of Ray has launched the Ray Community Complex Project, planning and developing new recreational and community spaces on the City’s west side. The project provides increased access to quality athletic facilities, new venues for community gatherings, and improved outdoor spaces. It creates a healthier, more vibrant environment and supports Ray’s continued growth as a place to live, work, and raise a family.
As a multi-phase initiative, the Ray Community Complex Project integrates recreation, athletics, and community spaces within a flexible framework, enabling the site to grow over time. By coordinating planning, design, and construction, the City makes strategic investments that create a cohesive, long-term community destination. City staff are actively exploring funding opportunities and plan to appoint a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) within the next few weeks.
“This project allows the City to take a thoughtful, long-term approach to meeting community needs,” said President Troy Kupper. “Though we are building in phases, the overall concept and master planning will be completed early to create a phased approach with manageable timelines and expectations.”
The project is owned by the City of Ray. The City is working closely with Ray Public Schools and Ray Parks District to align needs and create a stronger community partnership and gathering place.
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Project Phases
Master Planning – Spring to Summer 2026
The master planning phase establishes the overall vision for the west side site. This work evaluates land use, athletic facilities, community spaces, access, and infrastructure to support future development. The resulting guided plan ensures that every investment enhances recreational options, strengthens community identity, and provides accessible amenities for all residents.
Phase 1: Track and Field Complex Design – Summer to Late Fall 2026
In conjunction with the master plan, the City will design a track-and-field complex. This phase develops a buildable design, including facility features, site layout, and integration with surrounding infrastructure. The track and field complex begins as an early project due to its readiness and strong alignment with identified community athletic needs, promising new opportunities for sports, fitness, and community events.
Phase 2: Community Center Design – Fall 2026 to Late Winter 2027
The next phase explores design options for a future community center, including potential programming, flexible use, and long-term operations. This facility is intended to provide residents with space for gatherings, recreation, and enrichment activities. The scope and timing of the facility will reflect planning outcomes and funding availability, ensuring the City moves forward responsibly and sustainably to meet residents’ diverse needs.
Construction – 2027 and Beyond
Once the City approves designs and secures funding, construction of the track and field complex will begin in 2027, moving the project from planning to visible, on-the-ground progress. The City will determine the timing for the community center construction after finishing design and funding decisions.
Throughout the process, the City will provide project updates and opportunities for residents to stay informed as planning progresses. At various steps throughout each phase, the community will be asked to provide ideas, offer feedback, and learn about the project's current and future direction. Backed by feedback from a recent community survey, the community sentiment confirmed the need for enhanced recreational and gathering spaces. The creation of this community complex promises more accessible, enjoyable amenities for families and individuals. Community input will continue to guide decision-making.
The Ray Community Complex Project reflects the City of Ray’s commitment to intentional growth, responsible investment, and long-term community well-being.
Stay informed and get involved. Visit https://www.raycommunitycomplex.com/ or follow the City of Ray’s official channels for updates, milestones, and opportunities to participate in the Ray Community Complex Project.