In 2021, The US Government passed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to provide federal relief funds to state and local governments impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic. These funds could be used for public health, economic emergencies, and infrastructure. Roanoke City formed a public committee to determine funding allocations, with Eureka Recreation Center representing the largest investment in a single project in Roanoke Parks and Recreation history.

The early phases of the project involved extensive concept design options that explored a range of possibilities for site location, program arrangement, and new construction versus renovation. The community was deeply engaged in the process and made clear the significance of the Park and Recreation Center to residents of all ages – in fact, some had been engaged with the Center since its opening in 1961.

The strategy to best balance programming needs and available funding was to renovate the existing support spaces and gymnasium, while supplementing with a small addition. The site strategy relocates the main entrance to the east of the gymnasium, which allows for a stronger connection between the building and the flexible lawn space. This lawn will be able to accommodate events such as the Juneteenth celebration, which has had as many as 1200 participants.

Another key aspect of the design is the integration of art both inside and outside the building, bringing vibrancy and life as well as opportunities to tell the story of the community.