Chelsea Recreation Center, Recreation center in Chelsea, Manhattan, United States
The Chelsea Recreation Center is a six-story facility in Manhattan with a swimming pool, basketball courts, and fitness equipment for community members. The building contains varied sports areas and training options designed for different ages and fitness levels.
Construction started in 1973 but stopped in 1976 due to a city financial crisis and left the structure unused for decades. Work resumed in the early 2000s and eventually finished.
The center features a large tile mural depicting dolphins, created by a Japanese photographer whose work was gifted to the community. This public art piece has become a recognizable landmark that reflects how the neighborhood values artistic expression.
The facility is accessible and offers flexible options for different community members with varied needs. It is best to check current hours before visiting and bring comfortable athletic clothing and shoes.
Residents campaigned for 25 years to complete the center, showing how much the community wanted this facility. This long effort culminated in a symbolic ceremony where politicians used gold hammers to mark the resumption of construction.
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