The City of Gastonia announced that it has been awarded a grant in the amount of $237,500 from the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC), as well as a $5,000 grant from the North Carolina League of Municipalities (NCLM), to renovate its new Active Adult Center.
As part of the first phase of renovations at the new facility, located at 107 South Broad Street, the City will use the grant funds from the NCDOC, which requires a City match of five percent (5%) or $11,975, to upgrade the lighting and replace windows and flooring. The grant from NCLM will be used for security cameras. The City is also pursuing additional grant funding for electrical updates in the building through the City’s partnership with ElectriCities.
The property will serve as the new home for the programs and activities previously offered at the former National Guard Armory/Adult Recreation Center (ARC) on West Franklin Boulevard. The City is currently accepting proposals for the redevelopment of the former ARC facility.
“The Active Adult Center will continue the long-standing tradition of providing opportunities for fellowship, recreation, and wellness for Gastonia’s older adults and seniors,” said Tripp White, Director of Parks and Recreation. “These renovations are an exciting first step toward creating a refreshed and welcoming space for our senior community.”
The City of Gastonia appreciates the continued partnership and support from the North Carolina Department of Commerce in helping improve community facilities and enhance the quality of life for residents.
The goal is to open the new facility in the first quarter of 2026. For more information about the Active Adult Center and other Parks and Recreation programs, visit the Parks and Recreation webpage on the City’s website.
Firms interested in the Request for Proposals for the former ARC property should email Kristy Crisp, Director of Economic Development, for more information or call her at 704-842-5105.
###
Gastonia, N.C., just minutes west of Charlotte, is one of the area’s best places to live and work with an ideal combination of location, size and livability. Gastonia is the largest of Gaston County’s 13 municipalities and one of the largest cities in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Selected as an All-America City three times, Gastonia’s desirable quality of life is the result of its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly neighborhoods, responsive government and vibrant business environment.