25 Years at the Heart of Downtown: How Statesville’s Civic Center Connects Community and Commerce

Have you ever wondered what makes a space truly "civic"? The Statesville Civic Center stands as a perfect example – a versatile community hub that brings people together while driving economic development in Downtown Statesville.

Nestled in the heart of Statesville's walkable downtown district, this 25-year-old facility serves dual purposes that might seem at odds but actually complement each other beautifully. It provides affordable, accessible space for local residents hosting weddings, retirement parties, and community gatherings. Simultaneously, it attracts regional conferences and multi-day events that bring visitors to explore our charming downtown shops, restaurants, and amenities.

Listen now as Ron Smith (Statesville City Manager), Richard Griggs (Director at the Statesville Recreation & Parks Department), and Kali Bailey (Facilities & Events Manager at the Statesville Recreation & Parks Department) talk about how the facility's flexibility shines through in how it serves different audiences throughout the week. Weekends often feature wedding receptions and celebrations, while weekdays host business training sessions and organizational meetings. Major events like the North Carolina Main Street Conference, which brought over 700 attendees, showcase the center's ability to handle large-scale gatherings that benefit the entire downtown ecosystem.

Recent changes reflect a strategic balance between financial sustainability and community access. Different rate structures for weekday versus weekend events, adjusted rental timeframes, and partnerships with the Convention and Visitors Bureau all aim to optimize the facility's impact. Meanwhile, impressive upgrades including state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment in the newly renovated media room, interior refreshes, and planned outdoor improvements position the Civic Center to meet modern needs.

Now operating under the Recreation and Parks Department umbrella, the Statesville Civic Center team is exploring exciting new possibilities including more internal programming, concerts, and expanded community partnerships. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a regional conference, we invite you to discover how this downtown gem can transform your next event.

Contact us today to tour the facility and learn why the Statesville Civic Center has remained at the heart of our community for a quarter century. Learn more about the Civic Center here or give them a call at 704-878-3493.

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Front & Center: A podcast from the City of Statesville

Welcome to "Front & Center," the podcast that pulls back the curtain on government operations, offering you an exclusive glimpse into the inner workings of one of North Carolina's bustling cities. This show is hosted by April Nesbit, Public Information Officer, with co-host Nakayla Griffin, Community Resource Officer. We invite you to join us as we navigate the corridors of government in Statesville, revealing the processes, policies, and people that drive the city forward. Expect exclusive interviews with key officials, in-depth analyses of public initiatives and city development projects. "Front & Center" is designed to connect you directly to the heart of our city's governance. Prepare to be engaged, informed, and empowered with each episode.

WATCH Previous Episodes Here