The New Town section of Elizabethtown is benefiting from two grants recently awarded to the Town of Elizabethtown with the development of a new community center and improvements to the streetscape along part of Martin Luther King (MLK) Drive.
The Town of Elizabethtown, in conjunction with engineering consultant Paul Mattox, Libby Smith, and E.L. Robinson Engineering, applied for and was awarded $2,575,000 to design and construct an 11,000 sq ft Community Center on Martin Luther King Drive
The Town had previously been awarded a Community Development Block Grant – Neighborhood Revitalization grant that will improve sidewalks and add decorative lighting to make the area safer and pedestrian friendly.
UPDATE - AUGUST 2024
COMMUNITY-CENTER-ON-MLK-DRIVE-August-2024 - downloadable
A series of focus group meetings were held throughout July to gain public input into the purpose, needs, and expectations of the Community Center. Led by Wanda Stansbury, a community engagement advisor for CTL Engineering, individuals representing youth, residents, business owners, the clergy, and potential partners gathered to review the proposed floor plan and suggested activities. All participants agreed that the Center should focus on health and wellness, learning and education, socialization, cultural enrichment, sports and recreation, and connections with community resources. The focus groups’ input helped to finalize a design plan that includes a conference room, a multipurpose room, several smaller rooms, administration and security offices, and a commercial kitchen. The spaces are designed to accommodate programming focused on arts and crafts, computer and technology, fitness pursuits, and education. The building will also be able to host small to large group gatherings. Envisioned as a place to celebrate the past and build on the future, New Town’s rich history will be showcased prominently in the lobby.
NEXT STEPS
Construction is expected to begin in late Summer 2024.
The Advisory Board and Town will create a budget for annual operations by creating programming and user fees to cover the cost of maintenance and operations.
STATUS UPDATE – MARCH 2024
COMMUNITY-CENTER-ON-MLK-DRIVE - downloadable update
- NOV. 2022 - The Town of Elizabethtown awarded a $2,575,000 Community Development Block Grant – Neighborhood Revitalization grant for design and construction from the NC Dept. of Commerce, Rural Development Division
- APRIL 2023 – Groundbreaking and community announcement.
- JAN. 2024 – Required environmental clearances and permits obtained. Town staff is cleared to move to construction.
- FEB. 22, 2024 – The Advisory Board holds its first meeting.
- JULY 2024 - Series of focus group meetings with residents, youth, business leaders, and others.
- AUGUST 5, 2024: Contract for design/construction awarded to DeVane Builders of Elizabethtown.