The many years of those events and programs are now showing their wear and tear, evident inside and out. Recently, the Center was identified as a “high priority” in the Venues Parks & Arts Master Plan. Two years of planning and public meetings have led to the development of a new facility. “It is exciting to see this project, initiated and planned by the community, come to fruition. We will continue to make it a priority to engage the neighborhood as onstruction starts and programming is relocated,” said Aaron Perri, Executive Director of Venues Parks & Arts.
The upgraded facility will continue to serve as a neighborhood anchor, serving everyone from youth to seniors. Not only will the smell of new paint and the feel of new floors be an exciting change, the overall footprint of the building will increase by 50%. This will provide an expansive list of new features, including:
- Three Practice Basketball Courts
- Bike Repair Shop
- Expanded Fitness Center
- Locker Rooms
- Performance Platform
- New HVAC System & Storage
“I am excited about the renovation, because it will give us additional space to better serve the community, and provide not just quantity but quality programming for all of our families, participants, and partners,” said Cynthia Taylor, Director of Charles Black Recreation Center. Curb appeal will also be upgraded, with new landscaping and a beautiful entrance to welcome all.