The City of Ocala is preparing to host a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place.
The event will be held Thursday, Jan. 28 at 11 a.m. at 1812 NW 21st Ave. The new 41,750-square-foot, two-story facility will serve as a hub for the community. It will include designated indoor space for senior, youth and family programs, a banquet/event space, fitness equipment and an indoor walking track, two full basketball courts, a library and multi-purpose studio rooms.
“Community centers provide a positive impact on our physical strength, mental stability and the social well-being of children and adults,” said Preston Pooser, Ocala Recreation and Parks Department director. “This center will provide our community with a gathering spot to make new memories, learn new skills and focus on fitness.”
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings, maintain proper social distancing of six feet and frequently sanitize their hands.
For those unable to attend in person, the groundbreaking will be livestreamed via the Ocala Recreation and Parks Facebook page. For more information about Ocala Recreation and Parks, visit www.ocalafl.org/recpark or call (352) 368-5517.
The new community center was named for longtime Ocala City Council member Mary Sue Rich, who elected not to seek re-election in 2019 after serving for 24 years. On the night of her final meeting in December 2019, her fellow Councilmembers voted to bestow the honor upon her of having the new community center at the site of the old Royal Oak Charcoal Plant carry her name.
In March 2020, the City Council awarded Orlando-based Ohlson Lavoie Corp. with an $885,650 contract to create and design the new community center. Future plans include adding outdoor spaces, an outdoor playground, an event lawn and community garden.