Mayor Emanuel, Park Leaders Unveil Bronzeville Arts And Recreation Center

(CBS) -- After a week filled with tragedy and turmoil, community members and the Chicago Park District came together Saturday morning to bring some positive vibes to a South Side neighborhood.

WBBM's Andy Dahn reports.

It came in the form of an unveiling. After more than a decade of construction and development, the 32,000-square-foot arts and recreation center at Ellis Park was officially opened.

It includes a gym with basketball courts, a five-lane swimming pool, a rooftop patio and more.

Mayor Emanuel says the Bronzeville park is an example of what makes Chicago a strong city.

"There's a lot of turmoil going on around the country. We haven't been immune from that. Building communities, building the bonds that brings people together, is how we answer every one of the challenges we face. There's nothing wrong with Chicago that can't fixed by what's right with Chicago, and it starts right here," the mayor said.

The center also offers a variety of programs for seniors and children this summer.