The City of Manhattan Parks & Recreation Department has functioned for many years in offices converted from a maintenance building in Manhattan City Park. The City Commission in 2012 determined new offices were in order and engaged Bruce McMillan AIA Architects, P.A. and the consulting team to devise several options for new facilities.

The ultimate decision by the City Commission was to provide a 7,300 sq. ft. addition to City Hall and simultaneously upgrade HVAC, electrical, and stage service levels in Peace Memorial Auditorium.