A former public school building in Southside City is set to become a new community center and resource hub, marking a significant step forward for local residents.
The vacant Lincoln Elementary School, acquired by United Pathways through the city’s public school repurposing initiative, is slated for transformation after years of remaining empty and boarded up.
United Pathways Executive Director Tasha Bennett expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity. “It’s a great relief for the community that this building won’t just sit vacant anymore,” Bennett said. “We saw real potential in this space to serve Southside City residents.”
United Pathways secured the property as part of the initiative’s first phase, winning the bid to redevelop the site. The organization has named the project the Renewal Hub.
“We started our application process at the very beginning of the repurposing initiative, and now we’re moving toward the next phase,” Bennett said.
The Renewal Hub will eventually serve as an emergency shelter for families during severe weather. The center also plans to offer job training and after-school programs, providing local children with a safe environment for recreation and learning.
“Through conversations with Southside City residents, it’s clear that the lack of recreational spaces is a major concern,” Bennett said. “Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming place for young people.”
The next stage involves raising the funds needed to open the center, with United Pathways seeking support through fundraising campaigns, foundation grants, and community donations.
“Lincoln sits on a ten-acre lot, so there’s a lot of space to revitalize,” Bennett said. “The building has been unoccupied since before the pandemic and requires significant work before it can open to the public.”
United Pathways emphasizes that this project is just the beginning for Southside City, with hopes of spurring further development and community investment in the area.
