ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) —The City of Albany is renovating three major gyms at the same time, with a combined cost of more than $20 million.

Construction is underway at Carver Gym, Bill Miller Gym and Henderson Gym.

Over the past year, the city has moved forward with plans to revitalize all three gyms. Parks and Recreation Director Steven Belk said the projects are an important investment for the city.

“The one thing we can’t control is perception. We only can’t control what’s in front of us. The most important thing what I’m really excited about is to let people fully understand, to let people see what the investment that we did. We heard them,” Belk said.

Carver Gym

The project involves renovating the early-1950s/’60s facility while retaining its historic character. The project will keep the building’s frame and bleachers and extend the court to meet collegiate-size requirements.

The gym will be geared to support more adult programs and events. Target completion is August 2027.

Bill Miller Gym

The project involves removing the gym’s walls while keeping and extending the floor, creating an outdoor court with a roof. The project also includes sidewalks and a crosswalk connecting the site to property across the street, where a community center will be built in collaboration with Dougherty County Schools, next to Morningside Elementary.

Henderson Gym

Henderson Gym was originally set to finish at the beginning of 2027. Completion is now targeted for August 2027. The project involves expanding the facility from about 10,000 to 18,500 square feet. The delay was attributed to weather and unsuitable soil that had to be removed and replaced.

The expanded facility will include a collegiate-size indoor court, covered outdoor court, weight room, fitness room, arts-and-crafts room, multipurpose classrooms, and outdoor programming and classroom space. A multipurpose field and outdoor entertainment are planned for a later construction phase.

Funding

Belk said Carver Gym cost about $6 million, Henderson Gym cost about $8 million, and Bill Miller Gym cost about $7 million. The projects were paid for by SPLOST 8 funding and three grants the city received totaling $6 million.

“This investment is going to now be available to every citizen in this community. And even the surrounding communities in the region. Because we just want them to understand, this investment is for them. It’s for you,” Belk said.

Belk says all three projects are expected to be completed by August 2027, barring delays.

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