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DEKALB COUNTY, GA – DeKalb District 5 Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson announced on Monday, Aug. 25, the development of a new Lucious Sanders Recreation Center in the city of Lithonia.
The county is investing $17 million to transform the outdated center, which has served the community for more than 40 years.
“The citizens of District 5 and the City of Lithonia deserve this new facility, and that is why I am proud to have allocated over $2 million in District 5 funding toward the total $17 million investment,” said Commissioner Davis Johnson.
Super District 7 Commissioner LaDena Bolton, who also supported the project, emphasized its significance.
“We’re proud to invest $17 million into the transformation of the Lucious Sanders Recreation Center, a space that has served this community for over four decades. This long-overdue project will bring renewed energy, modern infrastructure, and the resources our residents need to thrive.”
Located at 6698 Parkway Road in Lithonia, the new center is funded through a combination of DeKalb County SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) dollars and District 5 resources. It is being developed in partnership with the DeKalb County Community Development Department and POND Architecture.
Replacing the outdated facility, the new 24,087-square-foot center will offer diverse programming and serve as a hub for intergenerational wellness, learning, and engagement.
Key features include:
- A multi-court gymnasium for basketball, volleyball, and other indoor sports
- Fitness and wellness studios
- Multipurpose rooms for arts, crafts, and educational programs
- A technology lab and digital learning spaces
- A fully ADA-accessible design
The new Lucious Sanders Recreation Center will promote health, education, and community connection for residents of Lithonia and District 5.
About Lucious Sanders
Lucious Sanders (1915–1993) was a decorated World War II veteran, civil rights leader, and tireless advocate for equity and justice. After serving his country abroad, he returned to Georgia to fight for civil rights at home—organizing, educating, and empowering Black residents throughout Lithonia and DeKalb County. The new center proudly honors his legacy of courage, leadership, and service.