Pontiac Hosted a Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Recreation Center

PONTIAC, MI (October 9, 2025)— Progress is underway as the City of Pontiac officially broke ground on its highly anticipated recreation center on October 8 at 191 N. Glenwood Ave., Pontiac. Elected officials, contractors, and city staff highlighted their collective efforts and steps forward toward the structural transformation of the former McCarroll School. The development is set to create additional recreational opportunities for Pontiac youth and is expected to be completed by Spring 2027.

The versatile facility will be situated directly across from the Roberto Duran Rodriguez Skatepark, which opened in 2024. The recreation center will serve as an excellent home for Pontiac youth recreation programs, providing a safe space for them to gather after school throughout the year. It will also be a fantastic facility for events such as receptions, birthday parties, and a variety of gatherings for up to 100 people.

“This groundbreaking is the culmination of years of effort, from acquiring the land to assembling the financing and from design and engineering to hiring a construction manager,” said Mayor Tim Greimel. “Most importantly, this marks a huge investment in Pontiac’s most valuable asset - its residents. This project will result in a state-of-the-art community center for recreation and enrichment programming for residents of all ages, especially our youth.”

The city contracted Clark-White Construction Company for the construction, while RACER and MRSA have led the design. Pontiac City Council approved funding for $37,033,018, which came in slightly under budget and includes all preferred options of the original design plan. The final facility will be 54,000 square feet, featuring high-quality amenities such as:

• Basketball courts

• Fitness center

• Indoor walking/running track

• Showers/locker rooms

• Early childhood learning area

• Full commercial kitchen

• Multipurpose rooms

• Teen area and game room

• Manicured outdoor space

• Office space and more!

Additionally, the building will serve as a resiliency hub for the community. This means that in times of emergency, the community will know where to go for assistance.

"The groundbreaking of our new recreation center for the City of Pontiac marks the beginning of a new chapter for the community—where health, activity, and togetherness come to life,” said Pontiac Parks and Recreation Director Tarrance Price. “Today, we celebrate progress, unity, and the bright future ahead."

The state-of-the-art facility will be the cornerstone of the Pontiac community, where motivation meets innovation. Residents have long awaited this neighborhood hub—

a welcoming space where families can play, learn, and grow for years to come.

“The New Pontiac Youth Recreational Center is a transformative investment in the heart of District 6, one that will uplift our youth, strengthen community bonds, and create lasting opportunities for growth and development,” said Pontiac City Council President Pro Tem William Carrington. “This initiative reflects the vision and commitment of our city leadership, who made bold, strategic decisions to prioritize the well-being of our residents and the future of our young people. By providing a safe, inclusive space for recreation, learning, and mentorship, the center will serve as a cornerstone for community cohesion and youth empowerment. We are proud to see this project come to life and grateful for the leadership that made it possible.”

Anyone looking to view more visuals can take a virtual walk through the building here.