Photo by Victoria Hernandez.
City leaders and community members gathered in the gymnasium of the Martin Weiss Recreation Center Wednesday morning to celebrate the award of $1.2 million in federal funding to support the center’s upcoming renovation.
Congressman Marc Veasey presented the federal funding to Dallas leaders. Martin Weiss Recreation Center secured voter support for $9 million in the 2024 Bond Program to improve the interior and exterior of the building.
“It’s great to be here to celebrate an investment in a place that is going to really bring the community together,” Veasey said.
The project is currently in the design phase, with improvements expected for the building’s storm drainage, interior renovations, and a new kitchenette, along with mechanical, HVAC and electrical upgrades, according to the 2024 bond dashboard. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 with completion estimated for 2028.
“Martin Weiss has already changed countless lives, and because of the investment we celebrate today, we are going to make sure it has the opportunity to change countless more,” said John Jenkins, Dallas Park and Recreation director. “This is one of the most powerful things about parks and recreation.”
In addition to the planned renovation, Veasey announced that the $1.2 million will also support an expansion for the senior activity center.
District 1 Park Board Member JR Huerta said that it is because of local seniors that the recreation center made it to the bond program.
“This investment means making the recreation center that has served faithfully for generations and making sure the building is finally able to match the strength, pride and potential of the communities around it,” Jenkins said. “Together, these investments would allow us to modernize Martin Weiss Recreation Center and provide us something this community has long awaited.”
