By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org
The City of Kentwood will host a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Kentwood Community Center at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5.
The event will take place at the construction site, 4755 Walma Ave. SE, and feature remarks from Mayor Stephen Kepley and special guests. Light refreshments will follow.
The new Community Center, part of the city’s 2022 voter-approved parks millage, is set to open in summer 2026. This is the City’s first large-scale project to utilize the millage funding. This vibrant 72,000-square-foot community hub will offer state-of-the-art amenities and provide a welcoming space for residents and visitors to connect, stay active and thrive.
The facility will feature inclusive amenities such as a unique fitness center with equipment for individuals with disabilities, three full-sized basketball courts, an elevated three-lane indoor track and a versatile events room for up to 250 guests with a catering kitchen. The Community Center is expected to draw local, regional and national events such as conferences, sports tournaments and weddings. It also will house Kentwood’s various parks and recreation activities. Additional highlights include a cutting-edge, AI-powered multi-sport simulator, a child watch room and a welcoming bistro/café.
The Community Center’s design reflects Kentwood’s commitment to inclusivity and community, with features like a Little Free Pantry to support residents in need, ensuring it becomes a cornerstone of connection and opportunity for all.
