One of Chattanooga’s core neighborhood landmarks is preparing for a major transformation. The East Lake Community Center, located in one of the city’s most racially diverse neighborhoods, will roll out a sweeping programming revamp over the next several months as part of a new “resource hub” model being piloted by local officials.
City leaders say the initiative is designed to better meet the needs of East Lake residents by expanding the center’s services far beyond traditional recreation offerings. The revamped lineup will include dance classes, cooking lessons, and even on-site driver’s license renewals–a mix intended to make the center a more comprehensive, one-stop destination for community support.
The 16,000-square-foot facility, 3601 Dodds Ave., already serves a broad and diverse population, and officials hope the new model will strengthen its role as a neighborhood anchor. If the pilot proves successful, Chattanooga plans to expand the resource hub approach to other community centers across the city.
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly said the effort reflects a broader commitment to ensuring residents have access to the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
“The East Lake Community Center is home to our city’s first pilot Resource Hub,” Kelly said. “This is a welcoming space that will activate health and wellness resources, education and workforce development opportunities, community services, and more. This focus on our people–all of our people–helps ensure they thrive and succeed in Chattanooga.” The rollout will take place gradually over the coming months as the city evaluates which services resonate most with residents. For now, officials say the goal is simple: create a more accessible, more responsive community center model that reflects the needs and aspirations of the people it serves.