Dr. William U. Pearson Community Center

As part of a three-phase development in the MLK/Carey Park site in Las Vegas, the Doc Pearson Community Center and park are designed to help revitalize an older neighborhood. The new facility is managed and operated by the Las Vegas Urban League who, along with Clark County, was instrumental in developing the program for this site, which is designed to enhance the lives of individuals within the community.

Elements of the community center include an NCAA regulation gymnasium, fitness and dance rooms, teen and game rooms, computer lab and classrooms, multipurpose rooms with kitchen area, senior space and learning center, and administrative and support areas. The interior spaces are arranged around a large open central mall, increasing the visibility of each space and fostering community and multigenerational interaction. The exterior space includes an amphitheater for outdoor performances and events. The surrounding park includes a running track, play fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. A donated steel sculpture located at the entry of the park is the focal point of the entire complex.

Sustainable design strategies include protected north and south facing clerestories that flood the open indoor mall with filtered natural daylighting. Drought tolerant landscaping suitable to the region surrounds the exterior of the facility and flows into the park.