GROOMING THE NEXT GREAT CHAMP

Grand Opening of Lincoln Heights Youth Center Complex

Los Angeles - A historic church built in 1930 has been restored and transformed into the Lincoln Heights Youth Center Complex. The Department of Recreation and Parks held a grand opening ceremony for the new 15,000-square-foot complex on Monday, July 26, 2010.

The $7.2 million project included the renovation of the original chapel and school building, installation of an elevator and improvements to make the center handicap accessible. The two-story chapel now has a boxing ring and male and female weight rooms. The new center also boasts a youth center, full-sized outdoor hockey rink (complete with court markings and lights for night games) and junior arts center (which will be run by the Department of Cultural Affairs).

The Architectural Division of the Bureau of Engineering in the Department of Public Works designed the renovations, which were built by the Construction Division of the Department of General Services. The project was managed through the Bureau of Engineering's Recreational and Cultural Facilities Program. Funding for the project, including purchase of the property, came entirely from Proposition K.

For the first time, Recreation and Parks and Cultural Affairs will work side-by-side and provide different programs at one location. This partnership will bring more resources into the heart of the surrounding neighborhood, providing positive alternatives for local youth and adults.

The Lincoln Heights Youth Center Complex will provide a youth and women's kick boxing class, youth boxing program and much more. The new unique center will serve as a replacement location for the former Los Angeles Youth Athletic Club (LAYAC) that operated similar fitness programs out of the fifth floor of the old Lincoln Heights jail on Lacey Street for over four decades. The City closed the LAYAC on April 30 due to safety issues.

Innovation and creativity were at the heart of both locations. In the past, an old jail served as training grounds for future boxers and now a former church will be grooming the next great champ. The new Lincoln Heights Youth Center Complex is located at 2911 Altura Street in Los Angeles 90031. For more information on this location call the complex directly at (323) 266-1401.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Andrea Epstein: (213) 202-2690

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689