On June 29, 2009, the City of Oakland began construction of the East Oakland Sports Center (EOSC) at a special ceremony at 9175 Edes Avenue. The innovative public sports facility is slated to open in early 2011 with an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, an aerobics and dance studio and a multi-purpose room/learning center.

In a future phase, which is as yet unfunded, an outdoor competition swimming pool and a

two-basketball-court gymnasium, with a suspended indoor running track, will be added.

“This project has been a long-time dream for the community,” said Councilmember Larry Reid. “The new sports center will be a gathering place where Oakland residents have a great time and enjoy themselves.”

The $24 million project is a result of a partnership between the City of Oakland, the City Redevelopment Agency, the East Bay Regional Park District and the State of California. About $10 million came from Measure DD, the $198 million Clean Water and Safe Parks measure passed by voters in 2004, $6 million came from the East Bay Regional Park District, Measure WW, which was approved last November, $2 million from the Oakland Redevelopment Agency, $3 million from Measure I, Oakland General Obligation Bonds for Parks and $3 million from the State of California through Proposition 40, the 2002 State Resources Bond Act.

The sports center’s distinctive design will be a source of pride in the East Oakland community. The project is designed for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certification, which is required by the City. The “green” features include thermal solar panels used to heat pool water, high-efficiency mechanical systems, recycled building materials and rain water runoff treatment.

All Oakland residents will be encouraged to utilize this facility upon its completion. Prices will be low and people of every age will find it useful. Furthermore, it will be a safe place for youth to go as an alternative to being out on the streets.