ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Today is the grand opening of a project that’s been years in the making! Residents both young and seasoned on the South Side of Albany now have a place to enjoy again with the reopening of Driskell Park.

According to Mayor Bo Dorough, this center represents a renewal of hope in a neighborhood that has often been forgotten.

“This means a whole lot because this is where I practiced football back in 1950. Coach Driskell was one of my coaches. It’s a blessing for this to have happened at a time like this because I spoke up. As the Word of God says, we have not because we ask not.” So, when we asked them for it 4 years ago, it came to fruition and it’s nothing but a blessing from God.” says Jimmy Hall, an advocate for Driskell Park.

“I grew up in this park from 6 years old. This park started a lot of us and produced a lot of people that came through this place that’s feeling good about what’s being done now.” says Albany resident, Ronnie Nelson.

“The young kids, men and women, boys and girls are going to enjoy it. The South Side of Albany needs it, Albany as a whole needs it. I can’t wait to see the kids in here.” says Driskell’s grandson, Jimmy Cosby.

The center is named in honor of Coach Charles Driskell, because he worked tirelessly to provide a safe and secure place for Albany’s youth. This park was a home for him and now focuses on adults and childhood needs.

The center will have:

• Ault fitness gym that can be used through a membership. It now has
• 2 regulations basketball courts
• Regulation football field, with a goal post lights and a scoreboard.
• A pool, that is currently being regulated
• An aerobics class for adults.
• Multipurpose areas for meetings
• Computer room for after school programs

Lastly, the park will have a shade structure and a walking track for adults to remain in good health. The final touches on the Park are happening now with the pool being renovated and once that is complete, the park will be fully operational.

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