The Booker T. Anderson Community Center is slated for a grand reopening on Thursday, June 6 — nearly four years after being damaged in a fire.
Mayor Eduardo Martinez announced there will be a ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. at the renovated center at 960 S. 47th St. in Richmond.
The event starts at 5 p.m. and features self-guided tours of the upgraded facilities, including the newly renovated multipurpose rooms and outdoor spaces. Children can participate in arts and crafts and all can enjoy basketball demonstrations. Light refreshments will be offered.
“We are thrilled to invite you to explore this vibrant space designed to foster connection, creativity, and community spirit,” the mayor stated on social media. “As you walk through our doors, envision the countless possibilities that lie ahead – from engaging programs to meaningful friendships waiting to blossom.”
The community center has been shuttered since it was damaged in a fire on Oct. 28, 2020 that began in an adjacent encampment.
The fire impacted the west side of the building, including the library, multiuse rooms and graphics arts rooms.
The project to restore the community center faced delays due in part to contractual disputes with the initial contractor. The total project cost was listed in an April Council meeting at about $4.4 million.
