A proud legacy is being revived at Ogden’s Marshall White Communnity Center. Situated at the northeast corner of Lincoln Avenue and 28th Street, this revitalized community hub restores a vital space for recreation, education, and mentorship in one of the city’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods.

The original facility first opened its doors in 1968, named in honor of Marshal White—a respected community leader, mentor, and law enforcement officer who lost his life in the line of duty. Notably, this community center became the first municipal building in the state of Utah to be named after a person of color.

After serving the community for over fifty years, the facility was closed in 2018 due to age and a persistent crack in the swimming pool, marking the end of an era. Following extensive community discussions, the Ogden City Council voted to demolish and rebuild the center on its original, historic site, ensuring it continues to serve the evolving needs of the local community.

Ribbon Cutting

On May 22, 2025, the city proudly unveiled its new $37 million community center to an enthusiastic crowd, celebrating the return of an iconic gathering place. The ribbon-cutting ceremony and Open House drew thousands, including members of the Ogden City Council, Mayor Ben Nadolski, numerous city employees, local residents, and members of Marshall White’s family—all united in honoring the legacy and future of the revitalized center.

“This has always been an anchor to this neighborhood in particular, and it remains that way,” Mayor Nadolski said at a ceremony.

“We are not afraid to do work,” continued the mayor as he gestured to the crowd. “We don’t let other people do it for us. We do it ourselves. We roll up our sleeves. We have the blue-collar work ethic and an attitude in this town of getting it done — and that’s what took place here. We got it done.”

Originally completed in 1968, the facility’s future came under scrutiny in 2018 when city officials closed it down. The closure sparked a broader public debate about the city’s commitment to investing in older neighborhoods. Mounting community pressure ultimately led to a pivotal decision in 2023: to move forward with a full reconstruction of the aging center.

Community Importance

The facility carries deep symbolic significance, highlighting the vital importance of investing in Ogden’s historically underserved neighborhoods and engaging with marginalized communities. Marshall White, a prominent Black leader who once headed the Ogden branch of the NAACP, was a tireless advocate for the city’s Black residents until his passing.

Ron White, son of Marshall White, was among the featured speakers at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. He recalled attending the original facility’s opening in 1968 as a young boy and shared heartfelt memories of spending time there with his mother—both as a visitor and an employee. Reflecting on the legacy of his father, Ron praised the new center’s beauty and urged the community to embrace and make full use of the revitalized space.

“Use this place to build strength, build muscle, build endurance because you’re going to need it. Life is hard. You’ll need the strength to carry you through,” said White.

Marcia White, the chairwoman of the Ogden City Council (no relation to Marshall White), also addressed the grand opening crowd. Noting the significance of naming the facility after a black man in the turbulent 1960s and during the civil rights era.

“Naming this center after a Black public servant in Ogden, in Utah, in our country at that time…was bold and really, really meaningful. And you need to be proud of Ogden for it,” she said.

About the Center

Located at 222 28th Street (between Grant Ave. and Lincoln) in Ogden, the new complex spans approximately 68,000 square feet—nearly doubling the size of the original 38,000-square-foot facility. Inside, it features a large swimming pool, an elevated track, a gym, locker rooms, basketball courts, an indoor soccer field, and multiple classrooms. Outside fields and courts (basketball and pickleball) are available.   The center is complemented by a park and playground, with ample free parking available along the south side of the building.

Expansive windows encircle the building, allowing abundant natural light to fill the interior. The open floor plan ensures easy and comfortable navigation throughout the center, while high ceilings, wide walkways, and spacious workout areas create an airy, welcoming environment with room for everyone.

Fast Facts

Hours of the center:

Open Monday through Thursday from 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM,

Open Fridays 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Open Saturdays 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Open Sundays Noon – 5:00 PM

Daily Admissions:

Adults $10

Seniors (ages 62+) $7

Youth (ages 3-17) $6

Monthly Memberships for the Kid’s Adventure Zone and Adult Monthly and Annual Memberships are available. 

Various programs are also available for adults and youths at the center.

Adult Programs Include:

Stronger Together—Teaching equipment basics and good workout habits

Fitness Classes

Art Classes

Adult Boxing

Adult Pottery

Adult Nutrition

Youth Programs Include:

Art Classes

Youth Pottery

Youth Boxing

Youth Music

Cooking Class

RadKIDS

Lil’Untamed

Ballet

Sports and Skills Camp

Youth Nutrition

Other Offerings:

Swimming lessons

School break programs are also available

Rentals:

Facility rentals for Fields, Courts (Basketball and Pickleball), classrooms, fieldhouse, kitchen, and more—including the entire facility are available to rent.

To learn more and get exact pricing, visit the website: https://www.ogdencity.gov/330/Marshall-White-Center

The Marshall N. White Community Center is now fully open and welcomes everyone—residents and non-residents alike—to enjoy its wide range of amenities and services.  Come by today for a workout, shoot some hoops, or make a splash in the pool. Marshall White will be happy you did.

Love finding local gems? Subscribe free to My Local Utah for Utah events, food, recipes and giveaways.

Business owners and event organizers: put your business, festival or event in front of Utah locals. List your business or advertise on My Local Utah.