August 29, 2012 - The City of Knoxville held a ribbon-cutting ceremony today for the renovation and expansion of Lonsdale Recreation Center, located at 2700 Stonewall Street.

The $500,000 project expands the center by nearly 2,500 square feet, with most of the space going toward a multi-purpose room that will host activities such as exercise classes, community meetings, and special events.

Photo Gallery on Facebook Other upgrades include new ADA accessible restrooms, a new office, an updated computer lab, as well as upgraded windows and HVAC system.
Ribbon Cutting at Lonsdale Recreation Center "Community centers strengthen neighborhoods and bring people together," said Mayor Madeline Rogero. "We are pleased to offer this updated and expanded facility to the people of Lonsdale."

This is the second recreation center expansion opened by Mayor Rogero and City officials this month. Last week, the City held a similar ribbon-cutting for Larry Cox Senior Center.

Both projects have been part of the City's plan to systematically update its recreation centers that were built in the 1950s and '60s.

Knoxville's Community Development Corporation contributed $150,000 toward the project, with the City covering the remainder of the renovation's costs. The City contracted Thomas Caldwell, Architect, to design the Lonsdale Recreation Center renovation project and K&F Construction to serve as the contractor.

Knoxville Parks and Recreation has maintained close communication with the Lonsdale neighborhood throughout the project.

"Each community has its own needs for a recreation center; you can't cookie-cut these facilities and expect them to thrive," said Joe Walsh, Director of Knoxville Parks and Recreation. "That's why we make it a priority to meet with local groups - so that we can personalize each facility to best serve its community."

For more information on Lonsdale Recreation Center, please call 311 (215-4311) or visit http://www.cityofknoxville.org/recreation/centers/lonsdale.asp.