PORTLAND, Ore. — A major renovation project has closed Mt. Scott Community Center until at least the spring of 2025.
The building at Southeast 72nd Avenue and Harold Street is undergoing a seismic retrofit and expansion project to better serve current and future generations, according to Portland Parks & Recreation.
The building is aging with some parts of it dating back to the 1920s. It doesn’t have the structural integrity to withstand a major earthquake.
The community center will get a new roof, upgrades to its HVAC system, an additional 2,800 feet of recreation space, new and improved fitness areas, and a large community event hall.
“As it has been for generations, the revitalized Mt. Scott Community Center will be a place for making lifelong memories,” says PP&R Director Adena Long. “We are excited about these major improvements and the benefits for all Portlanders they will provide.”
The existing pool, gymnasium and indoor roller-skating rink though will remain as is.
The $35 million project is being funded with $15 million from the Build Portland 2018 initiative, $7 million from the Mayor’s Livability Emergency Coordination funds, and more than $12 million in Parks System Development Charges, which are one-time fees assessed on new development that can only be used to expand the capacity of the park system.
During the construction, the preschool program, activities and classes will be offered at other facilities, including Woodstock Community Center, the Arleta, Lane and Grout SUN Community schools and East Portland Community Center, where the swim schedule has been expanded.
Construction is scheduled to begin this December and is expected to take up to 18 months to complete.
