Millcreek Township Board of Supervisors voted this evening to approve a sales agreement to purchase the Zem Zem Shrine Club property (42 acres of land and the existing building) located at 2525 West 38th Street. This decision follows the successful completion of a feasibility study, extensive public input, and a thorough due diligence period evaluating the acquisition of the facility for a future community center.
The development of a community center marks the culmination of years of strategic planning and community engagement. Obtaining this property to develop a community center reflects Millcreek’s commitment to enhancing health, recreation, family life, green spaces, and quality of life for current and future residents.
“Forward-thinking investments like this are what make Millcreek an excellent place to live,” said Parks and Recreation Director Ashley Marsteller Esper. “A true community center has been a goal for both the Parks and Recreation Department and the residents we serve for many years. We are thrilled to bring this vision to life.”
The Zem Zem Shrine Club purchase consists of 42 acres of land adjacent to Zuck Park and a 40,000 square foot building. This opportunity offers a centrally located space with tremendous potential to expand parks, recreation, and community services for Millcreek Township and Erie County as a whole.
“The opportunity to acquire a facility of this size, located near the population center of the Township, is extraordinary,” added Marsteller Esper. “The adjacent forested land and connection to Zuck Park present a once-in-a-generation chance to scale our Parks and Recreation services for the benefit of the entire region.”
The feasibility study, conducted by Ballard King, confirmed that many communities of comparable size successfully operate public facilities such as community centers, recreation complexes, and senior centers. Survey data also indicated broad resident support for such investments.
Jim Richardson, past Potentate and current Trustee for the Zem Zem Shriners, shared his support: “The Zem Zem Shriners have always been about community. To see this facility transfer to Millcreek Township, with a vision for a vibrant community center, full of energy and generations of new memories, just feels right.”
The Shriners approached Millcreek Township in 2022 to explore ways to support Millcreek’s goals while preserving their own legacy of service. Under the approved agreement:
- Millcreek Township will acquire the facility for $3.635 million.
- The Shrine Club will continue to operate in the facility through 2026, with a phased transition of occupancy beginning in 2027.
- The Shrine Club has subdivided a portion of land along West 38th Street on which it will build a new, smaller facility, allowing them to continue supporting Shriners Children’s Erie and maintaining their presence in the community.
Millcreek Township is actively exploring partnerships to establish a vibrant, regional community center offering programs and amenities that meet resident needs. The center is anticipated to enhance recreation, wellness, and community connection while generating increased revenue and economic activity for the area.
More details and updates are available at: www.millcreektownship.com/communitycenter.
