Gretna breaks ground on new community center

On Jan. 6, the city of Gretna broke ground on a major project that will triple the size of the old community center and reopen the facility for the first time in 15 years. The project is expected to be completed in June.
The official groundbreaking ceremony was held at the site of the future center at 167 4th Street and marked a long-anticipated milestone for city leaders and residents. Community members, partners, and stakeholders were invited to attend the ceremony.
“I’m excited to get to June and see a ribbon cut,” said Gretna City Manager Antonio Jefferson.
The existing community center was 3,034 square feet. The new community center will add over 6,000 square feet of space, tripling the size of the facility to 10,073 square feet.
According to Jefferson, that new space will include a dining hall, kitchen, and a large open space about half the size of a basketball court.
The expanded community center will now host senior citizens programming, which until now has been held at the Helen D. Franks Community Center. Youth development programs will also move into the new community center, likely administered by a non-government entity, according to Jefferson.
Mayor Anthony Baker said the project represents more than a construction effort and reflects years of collaboration and planning.
“This facility will serve residents of all ages and stand as a symbol of Gretna’s continued growth,” Baker said.
The project was funded entirely by a $2,253,000 Florida Small Cities Community Development Block Grant awarded through FloridaCommerce. Jefferson said the project has been 15 years in the making and credited city, state, and federal partners for working together to bring it to fruition.
“Having this facility back in service can create a wonderful asset,” Jefferson said.
Once completed, the new Gretna Community Center is expected to host community events, educational programs, recreational activities, and inter-generational initiatives. Construction is underway, with completion anticipated in June 2026.