Build the Dream at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center

No, the name of the MLK center is not changing. “Build the Dream” is the name of the project. The name of the Center will continue to be the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center.

From his State of the City Address on July 29th, 2021, Mayor Mueller “believes the time is right to transform the King Center to a Dream Center at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park. We can build a world-class, intergenerational community center, inspiring hope for us all. This is a concept that will be developed by the community. Resources may include small business incubation, educational opportunities, health resources, recreational activities, technological access, and creative programming. In tandem with the Dream Center’s development, we are taking intentional steps to revitalize the Linden Avenue corridor. Deeper partnerships with community organizations will be critical to the programmatic success of this new center.” 

There will be an entirely new building constructed as part of this project. Adding on to the aging existing building, which was built in 1973, would be problematic and would likely not save any money. The new building will be built to current building codes and modern sustainability practices. We are committed to providing the community with a building with first class quality.

All current programming will be continued in other VPA facilities or through partnerships with local organizations. Details will be shared closer to the start of construction.

All current employees will be retained and will be an integral part of continuing programming, as well as opening and running the new center.

The new MLK center is currently, and will continue to be, a Venues Parks & Arts community center. There will not be a price for admission and most of the programming will be free, just as it is now. Just like current operations, there will be certain camps, activities, and amenities that require fees.