When Freeport broke ground on its new community center nearly two years ago, city leaders promised it would become a vital gathering place in the heart of the community. After the former center closed in 2019, demand for a shared civic hub only grew as Freeport continued its rapid rise.
“Our community is the fastest growing city in the fastest growing county in Florida,” Samantha Graves, senior planner for the City of Freeport, said at the time. “While we do have some other options for citizen meeting places, it has been in progress to build a much better facility for our community.”
That vision moved forward with the official groundbreaking behind Freeport Town Hall, where leaders shared their commitment to restoring a place for residents to gather. “This is something that we’re hoping the citizens will love. It’s going to be nice, it’s going to be something that they can be proud of, that they can come and be part of,” Freeport City Council President Eddie Farris said. “I know it was a big disappointment when we had to [close the former community center]. We made a promise back then that we would end up and get one built.” At the time, the project was estimated at $2.5 million.
Now, that promise has been fulfilled. On Nov. 14, the community came together to celebrate the grand opening of the new Freeport Community Center—an impressive, modern space designed to serve residents for years to come.
“There are many groups that have needed a place to meet,” said a spokesperson. “This gives us a venue for stage productions and entertainment in this area.”
The new center features a commercial-style kitchen, a stage and a large multipurpose event area—flexible spaces that can host everything from civic meetings to performances, receptions and community celebrations.
The excitement is evident. Countless enthusiastic comments include:
- “Honored to be here alongside Mayor Russ Barley and City Planner Latilda Hughes as the city continues to grow and invest in spaces that bring people together. Proud of this milestone for Freeport!” — HomeBiz Properties
- “AT LAST! The stunning, new Freeport Community Center is open! It is nothing short of amazing and is a great new rental venue for all to enjoy!! Job Well Done!” — Tim Ard
- “This evening, our queens were in attendance at the ribbon cutting for Freeport’s brand-new Community Center! What a historic moment to be a part of!” — The Miss Freeport Queens
- “I am so impressed at the City of Freeport’s new community center. This place is amazing. The city has needed space for all sorts of activities and community gatherings. I see a future where Freeport becomes the arts and culture heart of Walton County. I heard it can seat over 300 people!” — Uriah Matthews
- With its doors now officially open, the Freeport Community Center stands as both a fulfillment of a promise and a bold step forward—creating a place where neighbors can gather, celebrate and shape the city’s next chapter together.
