“In 1957, my grammar school won the small enrollment basketball championship in that gym,” said Theron Ussery during a groundbreaking on Monday, March 17, 2025. “It’s great to be in the mecca of Macon sports.”  

That moment was full circle for Ussery, as 68 years later he would be standing next to what is now the Memorial Park Recreation Center, as the Chair of the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) Advisory Board. The SPLOST is paying for phase 2 of the $1.1 million renovations happening at the Center on Second Street. 

“The SPLOST has made a transformational change across the County from Lake Tobesofkee to public safety improvements, economic development,” said Ussery. “SPLOST has done great things for Macon, Georgia.” 

In the upcoming months Turner Construction, with architectural design from WM2A Architects, will be working on adding a brand-new tennis/pickleball court, adaptive playground, renovated baseball field, two new pavilions, upgrades to the swimming pool area, renovated sidewalks, and more. 

“Citizens will get the next level of equipment that will advance their physical, mental, and spiritual health, and opening doors for a better environment for our kids,” said District 2 Commissioner Paul Bronson. 

 “Improving recreational opportunities was one of the priorities named by the public more than 5 years ago as I became Mayor,” said Mayor Lester Miller. “The SPLOST has allowed for that to happen and more, and it’s saved residents of Macon-Bibb County money since 70% is paid for by people who don’t live here.” 

The Memorial Park Recreation Center is not the only Center getting improvements. Construction will soon begin at Filmore Thomas Park and the Frank Johnson Recreation Center.