Groundbreaking took place last week in Ripon on the indoor rock-climbing gym and fitness center at 1450 Garrison Way.

The location for Alpine Climbing Adventure Fitness is along Highway 99 between Boat Country and Canal Street Grille.

More than 16,500 square feet of the total 19,335 square footage of the indoor facility will be dedicated to climbing walls including 55 feet high lead wall, 15 Meter speed wall, 16- foot bouldering walls, and a kids’ climbing area.

The other part of the gym will be used for free weight, cardio equipment, yoga, high intensity interval and cross fitness classes.

Local resident and developer Jonathan Meek brought the plan before the Planning Commission in December. Prior to that, he spent six months working with staff on the steel-framed structure.

“We are psyched to have broken ground and bringing this project to reality,” he said on Friday. “Alpine will be a community of climbers, adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.

“We dream of a safe place where families can come together, people can set new goals and work together towards new heights.”

DeGraff Development is handling the construction.

“We’re extremely excited to be working with Alpine – this will be an amazing addition to the community and we are honored to build their flagship location,” said President Chad DeGraff.

The timeline calls for Phase I of the plan possibly being ready by Spring 2021.

Information on the project can be obtained at www.climbatalpine.com.