Major renovations begin at Frank Johnson Recreation Center in Macon

The $2 million SPLOST-funded project will add new pools, playgrounds, a remodeled baseball field and more, with reopening set for September.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Big changes are coming to the Frank Johnson Recreation Center as a major renovation project kicks off, bringing new pools, playgrounds and much more for the community.

Thanks to $2 million in SPLOST funding, supervisor of the recreation center Clarence Thomas says residents will soon enjoy advanced amenities and improved access.

“We’re very, very grateful that the taxpayers thought it not robbery, to go ahead and pass the SPLOST and put the penny to use in a way that will be an amazing transformation for recreation and all Macon,” he said.

Thomas believes the remodel was much needed.

“And become a place that we can offer more explained programming and offerings as well,” he said. “So, we believe that we will continue to grow our population here at Frank Johnson, with these recreational offerings that we’re going to be getting additionally.”

Melvin Flowers, a service worker at the recreation center, says he’s proud of how much the area has grown.

“Where we are standing now, it was all dirt roads,” he said. “And to see something such as that coming here I was so excited. And to see what happened then, what I see now, it’s outstanding for this community.”

Flowers says the renovations will help bring in more people throughout the community.

“This particular site is a big boon for the Unionville community, to see a nice brand-new building being built,” Flowers said. “Seeing our softball field be re-centered, to something kids want to play on, and I’m just thankful to God that I was here to see this be reconstructed.”

The project will also add a new tennis court, a remodeled baseball field and a new conference and weight room.

Thomas says the center should reopen in September.