Betty Ann Ong Recreation Center

On behalf of the Recreation and Park Department, We provided architectural, landscape design, engineering and construction management services for the new Betty Ann Ong Chinese Recreation Center. Amid lion dancers, musicians, elected officials and hundreds of community residents, the new complex opened to the public on July 14, 2012.

The new building is 24,234 square feet with over 10,000 square feet of outdoor space. The three-level above ground complex has new landscaping, play equipment and a repaved basketball court. The major interior program spaces include a gymnasium, arts and crafts room, weight room, multi-purpose room, and supporting facilities such as offices, restrooms, a kitchen, mechanical and electrical rooms, and storage. Although it was designed as a green building to LEED Silver specifications, it received Gold certification, and includes green features such as storm water collection on site for irrigation, use of low-emitting materials, daylight for over 75% of spaces, exterior views for over 90% of spaces, increased ventilation, energy efficient HVAC system, air delivery monitoring, and public transportation access.

The building was originally constructed in 1951 as the Chinese Recreation Center. On September 1, 2011 a topping off ceremony was held where the mayor announced the intention to dedicate the center to Betty Ann Ong, an American Airlines flight attendant during 9/11.

Funds to finance this project came from the 2008 Clean & Safe Neighborhood Park Bond, Revenue Bond in 2004, Neighborhood Park Bond in 2000, and Open Space Fund.