Major upgrades are coming to the Alton Recreation Center.

City leaders say they're taking steps to make sure they can turn the center into a temporary shelter if needed.

The center will get a solar microgrid, a backup generator and an energy-efficient HVAC system. The upgrades are being paid for by a $1.1 million FEMA grant. 

"Really it wasn't until Hurricane Hanna that we started making strides to make sure that we can turn this into a shelter," Alton Public Works Director Mauro Sandoval said.

The project is currently in the design phase. It is expected to be completed by 2027.