Overview
The Southside Community Center stands as a transformational investment in Richmond’s Southside community, converting a formerly underutilized church property into a vibrant hub for recreation, wellness, and neighborhood connection. Working alongside Worley Associates and the City of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities, Timmons Group provided planning, landscape architecture, site engineering, and community engagement services from the earliest visioning efforts through project completion. The project was guided by extensive collaboration with residents and stakeholders to ensure the renewed facility reflected the needs and aspirations of the surrounding neighborhood.
The resulting master plan reimagined the site as a comprehensive community destination, incorporating recreational amenities, gathering spaces, improved site infrastructure, and outdoor programming opportunities designed to serve residents of all ages. Key elements included a skate park, multipurpose athletic field, playgrounds, community garden, trails, gathering areas, and renovations and additions to the community center itself, creating a welcoming environment that promotes health, activity, and social connection.
Delivered through multiple phases and representing approximately $22 million in public investment, the completed Southside Community Center has become a catalyst for neighborhood revitalization and a valued community asset. Today, the facility provides South Richmond residents with safe, accessible recreational opportunities while serving as a gathering place that strengthens community pride and enriches quality of life for generations to come.
