Charles Driskell Park Community Center now open in Albany

ALBANY, Ga. – Excitement fills the air in Albany as city leaders, community members, and families gather for the unveiling of Charles Driskell Park.

Many gathered for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the grand opening of the Charles Driskell Park Community Center.

This long-anticipated project has been years in the making, with its concept first introduced in 2019. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop contributed $2 million to the effort, helping fund the $8 million initiative.

In may 2023, the city broke ground to kick off the renovation and expansion of Charles Driskell Park. Now, the transformed space is a hub of activity, offering something for everyone. Children who once waited their turn for the basketball court can now play freely, enjoying a revitalized park designed for the community’s needs.

“This part played a role in me becoming and molding who I am today. I lived right across the street in one of the worst neighborhoods here in Albany, Georgia, for crime and just drug use. And, this was an outlet for me. Me, my siblings and my friend, we were able to thrive here. We were able to be safe and protected here,” said Sheila Jackson, owner & founder of Reginald’s Safe Haven.

The facility is named in honor of the late coach Charles Driskell, who dedicated his life to creating a safe space for Albany’s youth.

Now, the transformed community center offers a variety of amenities for residents of all ages; including 2 basketball courts, a football field, and a pool. Adults can take advantage of an on-site fitness gym and aerobics classes, available through membership, while students benefit from a computer room for school programs.

Ingrid Driskell, daughter of Coach Charles Driskell, reflects on the significance of having the facility named in her father’s honor, sharing what it means to their family and the legacy he leaves behind.

“It’s amazing. It’s overwhelming. And I tell you, we are so proud and so humbled that the City of Albany and Albany Parks and Recreation thought so much of my father to honor him in this way. When I first walked in and I looked at this memorial to him, I was truly brought to tears. I literally grew up in this park. Me and all of my siblings, I believe I actually probably learned to walk over here, but I definitely learned to swim in the pool over here. It just feels wonderful,” Ingrid Driskell, daughter of Charles Driskell.

Much like Coach Driskell dedicated his life to providing a safe haven for Albany’s youth, this new facility is set to carry on his legacy for generations. City leaders and community members alike see this as the beginning of a brighter future for Albany.

“These children will really thrive. They need something, especially nowadays. Everything is just like electronics. So, to have this outlet where they can actually be outside and enjoy the outdoors, I think it is amazing,” said Jackson.

“My father loved working with children, Parks and Recreation. He loved the children in this community. I truly hope that with this beautiful facility, it’ll bring some of the love and some of the excitement back to the south side,” said Driskell.

De’Andra Jacobs reporting.

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