(Lawrenceville, Ga., May 12, 2011) - Commissioners have approved a major renovation project for Bethesda Park Senior Recreation Center, which opened 20 years ago as the first senior recreation center in Gwinnett County. Aging and in need of improvements, renovations to the interior of the center will include the replacement of lighting and plumbing fixtures with energy-efficient models, countertops, cabinets and reception desk along with floor, ceiling and wall coverings.

Funding for portion of the renovation project comes from the 2005 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). Gwinnett County awarded the project to the lowest of nine bidders, Thurgood Construction, Inc., for $534,800 on May 3.

In addition to interior renovations, kitchen equipment will be upgraded to commercial grade quality. Funding for this portion of the project is being provided through the federally funded Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The Bethesda Park Senior Recreation Center will be closed throughout the renovation beginning on May 28 and is expected to reopen after Labor Day. During this time, Gwinnett's senior citizens can still enjoy activities and events at Gwinnett County's second senior recreation center, Prime Timers Pointe at George Pierce Park in Suwanee. For more information on programs at Prime Timers Pointe visit www.gwinnettparks.com.