MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Binghampton neighbors and city leaders celebrated a new era Tuesday with a new crown jewel for the community.
With shovels in hand, they commemorated the groundbreaking of a new Lester Community Center. It will replace the existing building on Tillman Street, which opened in 1980.
The new center will include more multi-purpose rooms, gymnasiums, and an indoor walking track.
Mayor Jim Strickland said Lester is one of three most used community centers in Memphis, and it's due for an upgrade.
Binghampton neighbors agree.
"We loved the old one that was there and appreciate it so much but we are looking forward to new neighbors, new children and them having a beautiful place to go and enjoy life and have all kinds of recreation there,” said Sandra Harris.
The new Lester Community Center was a top priority for the past several years. It's part of a broader $200 million investment in community center and park upgrades across Memphis in the past decade.