The stunningly new Fair Oaks Community Center is opening its doors, ready to receive the many passionate East Tampa residents who are eager to return to their programming and wellness activities as well as new members who want to get involved.
Mayor Jane Castor, Tampa councilmembers, Skanska representatives, and dozens of neighbors will attend the ceremonial groundbreaking for the transformation of Fair Oaks Park.
The $34.7-million project is one of the largest projects undertaken by the Parks and Recreation Department. The centerpiece is a 33,055-square-foot community center, with space dedicated for seniors, multipurpose rooms, a teaching kitchen, and an indoor basketball court. Additionally, the building boasts a large collection of solar panels to cut energy costs.
"What a gift it is to be able to welcome East Tampa community members to their new recreation center, right in time for the holidays," said Mayor Jane Castor. "Tampa's recreation centers are among my favorite places, and although this facility blows it out of the park with its many features and amenities, the intangible benefits that happen inside are what make them worthwhile. This is where lifetime friendships are formed, where advice is shared, and where comfort and safety can be found."
The full East Tampa Recreation Complex covers 10.25 acres and will include one outdoor basketball court and two outdoor pickleball courts, a multipurpose sports field, children's splash pad, a playground for all abilities, and 1.5 miles of walking trails.
“There’s no better way to uplift our communities than investing in meaningful, generational projects,” said Councilwoman Naya Young. “Parks and Recreation programming and facilities instill not just health and wellness, but a sense of belonging and community pride. Public spaces offer tremendous opportunities for people of all ages and we cannot wait to see the impact this new complex will have on generations to come.”
The Herbert D. Carrington Sr. Community Lake will get a lighted aerator and a lookout pier with shade structures. The full recreation complex is on track to be completed in Spring 2026.