New Bern Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce the grand opening of the Pleasant Hill Community Center, located at 424 NC-55 near the City’s Water Resources facilities. A ribbon-cutting will be held on April 24 at 11 a.m., refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to the public.
The 4,000 square foot community center is part of the Pleasant Hill Park campus along NC-55 that includes a playground, picnic shelter, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a walking trail featuring United Way’s Born Learning Trail, water play features and ample parking. The park was originally built thanks to a grant from the NC Parks and Recreation Trust Fund.
The new community center complements this area with a new, modern facility with a fully equipped kitchen, restrooms, and a large multipurpose room. The Community Center is a perfect place for activities, including recreational programs, after-school care, summer camps, exercise classes, cultural arts classes, games and more. It will also be an ideal space to rent for birthday parties, family reunions, baby showers, or other events. The community center will be open to the public Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. starting, May 1 and available for rent seven days a week.
The opening of the community center is a history-making event, marking the first-time residents of Pleasant Hill have had access to a community center in such close proximity. “Instead of heading in town to West New Bern Recreation Center or to the former Stanley A. White Recreation Center, this community now has a place to relax, enjoy recreation, participate in classes and events, and celebrate special occasions that is located in their neighborhood,” said Kari Warren, Director of Parks and Recreation.
Construction of the Community Center wrapped up last week. The facility cost $300,000 to build.
Rental reservations for the community center will be accepted starting May 1. Citizens can reserve the facility by visiting the Parks and Recreation page at newbernnc.gov or calling Parks and Recreation Administration at 252-639-2901.
By Kari Warren