What's Happening?
The Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center, designed by Studio Gang, has officially opened in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. This 74,000-square-foot facility is the largest recreation center in Brooklyn and includes amenities such as an indoor pool, basketball
court, gym, media lab, and outdoor spaces. The center is named after Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress, and aims to serve as a community hub. The project, announced by former Mayor Bill de Blasio in 2020, was completed under the city's 'Design-Build' initiative, which accelerates public projects by combining design and construction responsibilities. The center is accessible to approximately 41,000 residents within a 15-minute walk or transit ride and offers low-cost memberships, free for those under 24.
Why It's Important?
The opening of the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center is significant as it represents a major investment in community infrastructure in Central Brooklyn, an area that has not seen a new recreation center in 15 years. This facility not only honors the legacy of Shirley Chisholm but also provides a much-needed space for community engagement, physical activity, and educational programs. The center's development under the 'Design-Build' initiative highlights a shift towards more efficient public project management, potentially setting a precedent for future city projects. The center's opening is expected to enhance community cohesion and provide a model for similar developments across New York City.
What's Next?
Following the opening, the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center will host guided tours and demonstrations to familiarize the community with its facilities. The city plans to continue using the 'Design-Build' approach for other recreation centers under development, such as those in Queens and Staten Island. These projects are expected to benefit from similar time savings and efficiency improvements. The success of this initiative could influence future public infrastructure projects, encouraging more streamlined and cost-effective construction processes.
