The Genesee County Commissioners approved a $1 million ARPA allocation for Berston Field House this week, adding to allocations of $2.5 million from City of Flint ARPA funds for the renovation and expansion of the 100-year-old recreational facility.
“We are so happy to hear that Genesee County will be investing in this historic community asset,” Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said. “I want to thank the County Commissioners for understanding the importance of this project to meet the needs of families and children in Flint and Genesee County. Berston Field House was a sleeping giant for many years, and it was the vision of my late, great friend, County Commissioner Bryant “BB” Nolden to shake that giant by the shoulders and say, ‘let’s wake you up.’ BB’s legacy continues through this historic investment, creating a destination for recreation in Flint.”
The City of Flint originally allocated in $1.5 million in ARPA funding to the Berston Field House renovation and expansion project in November 2022. Mayor Neeley proposed an additional $1 million allocation after Mott Foundation President Ridgway White announced at the Oct. 25 groundbreaking ceremony for Berston Field House that the foundation will provide matching funds for all donations to the project. This leverages the City of Flint’s additional allocation of $1 million into $2 million.
$30 million is needed for site improvements, existing building remodeling, construction of a new gymnasium, furniture, equipment, and technology.
The renovation and expansion project includes plans for an all-new gymnasium that will triple the size of Berston’s existing field house with basketball courts and an elevated track. The current field house will be completely remodeled to provide dedicated spaces for a boxing gym, art and music rooms, dance studios, a bike room, locker rooms, meeting spaces and a large community room.
Recently acquired land surrounding Berston will feature all-new outdoor basketball and pickleball courts, a softball diamond, and football/soccer/lacrosse fields. An amphitheater for outdoor performances and a splashpad (in place of Berston’s original pool) will bring more options for activity to the campus. A children’s playground and new parking lots are also planned.
