Bess Activity Center Reopens After Renovation

Three Rivers College partners with Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation to offer new amenities and memberships.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:07pm

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A bold, abstract silkscreen illustration featuring a repeated pattern of a basketball hoop in vibrant neon colors, conceptually representing the sports and recreation facilities at the renovated Bess Activity Center.The renovated Bess Activity Center will offer a range of sports and fitness amenities to the Poplar Bluff community.Poplar Bluff Today

The newly renovated Bess Activity Center at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff, Missouri is hosting an open house on April 13th to showcase its updated facilities, including sports courts, fitness classes, an Esports arena, Rocky's café, and more. The college has partnered with the local parks and recreation department to offer day passes and monthly memberships to the public.

Why it matters

The Bess Activity Center renovation represents a collaboration between the college and the city to provide expanded recreational opportunities and community access to the facility. This aligns with broader trends of universities opening up their resources to local residents, while also reflecting the growing popularity of campus-based fitness, sports, and Esports amenities.

The details

The Bess Activity Center now features updated sports courts, an expanded fitness center with classes, an Esports arena, and a full-service café called Rocky's. Three Rivers College has partnered with the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation department to manage memberships and access for both students and community members.

  • The open house event is scheduled for April 13, 2026.
  • The Bess Activity Center has undergone recent renovations.

The players

Three Rivers College

A public community college located in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation

The parks and recreation department for the city of Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Dr. Wesley Payne

The president of Three Rivers College.

Lanny Corcimiglia

The director of Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of hard work has gone into making the Bess better than ever. We are excited to partner with Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation to make this wonderful building available to the community.”

— Dr. Wesley Payne, President, Three Rivers College

“A great partnership and a great use of the Activity Center located right in the middle of the Three Rivers College campus. Many thanks to all the people in the planning and renovating process.”

— Lanny Corcimiglia, Director, Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation

What’s next

The open house event on April 13th will allow the public to tour the renovated Bess Activity Center and sign up for day passes or monthly memberships to access the new facilities.

The takeaway

The Bess Activity Center renovation demonstrates how universities can partner with local governments to expand community access to campus resources and amenities, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that serves both students and residents.