Lester Community Center: A Milestone for Community Wellness and Engagement

Recently, Memphis officially welcomed the grand opening of the new Lester Community Center, modern hub for health, wellness, learning, and connection.

Constructed by Turner Construction Company in partnership with Memphis Parks and architecture firm brg3s, the state-of-the-art facility represents a $19.8 million investment in the Binghampton neighborhood. The ribbon cutting ceremony in May 2025 marked the beginning of a new chapter for a beloved community asset.

Spanning nearly 30,000 square feet, the reimagined Lester Community Center is designed to serve all ages with its blend of recreational, educational, and social offerings. Inside, visitors will find a gymnasium that seats 500 spectators, perfect for local sports tournaments and school events, as well as a weight room and fitness center to support active lifestyles.

Above the gym, an indoor elevated walking track offers a year-round space for exercise, while a rooftop patio provides an open-air area for events, classes, or just a quiet moment with a view.

Beyond athletics, the center also prioritizes learning and connectivity. A technology-dedicated space and computer labs offer access to digital tools and resources, while multi-functional rooms can accommodate everything from workshops and community meetings to after-school programs and senior gatherings.

Adding to its versatility, the facility includes a commercial kitchen, allowing the center to host cooking classes, community dinners, and catered events. The addition of a gaming room rounds out the offerings, creating a truly dynamic environment where people of all ages can come together.

The Turner team approached this project with deep care, recognizing the impact this space would have on the community. By working closely with Memphis Parks and neighborhood leaders, they ensured that the new Lester Community Center honors the spirit of the original while meeting the evolving needs of the people it serves.

For us, the project reflects a continued commitment to community-first construction – building spaces that uplift, engage, and empower.

As the doors officially open and programs begin to take shape, the Lester Community Center stands as an example of what’s possible when cities invest in spaces that bring people together. From youth sports to senior wellness, tech access to family celebrations, the new center is equipped to support a healthier, more connected Memphis.