LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Momentum is building for the transformation of the former Mizpah Community Center as new funding and redevelopment plans move forward.
T-Mobile has awarded $50,000 to the city of Lima through its Hometown Grant program, with the funding designated for the redevelopment of the former Mizpah Center on South Central Avenue. The property, which has been closed for several years, was purchased by Philippian Missionary Baptist Church in 2023.
City, church and state leaders will gather Sunday, March 29th at noon for a “Mizpah Momentum” event at the church, where T-Mobile representatives will present the grant. During the event, the Philippian Community Development Corporation is expected to unveil renderings for the planned facility.
Plans announced last June call for the renovation of the nearly 7,000-square-foot building, along with the construction of a 2,100-square-foot addition that will house classrooms.
The city of Lima has committed $265,000 to the project, while the state is providing $2 million through the one-time Strategic Community Investment Fund to support construction costs.
Leaders say the redevelopment aims to breathe new life into the long-vacant property and expand opportunities for community programs and services.
