New playground is part of Andrade Center transformation

The rainbow-colored bricks of the Andrade Center have welcomed generations of families through its doors to laugh, play and build community. Now, they’re witnessing something new: a neighborhood investing in itself — and its future.

On Wednesday, local leaders and community members gathered at the Andrade Center, located at Providence Place II at 300 Wrighton St., to mark the start of a long-awaited transformation.

The building, renamed in honor of 7-year-old Stephen Andrade — a victim of a 1998 double homicide in the complex — will soon be reborn as a hub where families and children can connect and grow.

The project is being led by the Morganton Housing Authority, with support from city and county government, local businesses and civic partners. Attendees included Mayor Ronnie Thompson, County Commissioner Mike Stroud, City Councilman Butch McSwain, and Burke County Chamber of Commerce President Tonia Stephenson. Members of the Andrade family were also present to honor the legacy the building now carries.

Inside the room, the center’s history was on display. Tables were lined with newspaper clippings and photos tracing the legacy of Morganton public housing and the Andrade Center’s past. But speakers focused on what lies ahead.

“We’ve worked really hard, and we’ve got big ideas,” said Housing Authority Director Victoria Smith. “This is the only one of our properties that doesn’t have a playground, a court, or even a connection to a school. That’s going to change.”

Plans call for new recreational facilities, including a basketball court, a playground and a shaded pavilion for families. Smith said the investment reflects the love and attention the West End community deserves.

In addition to the outdoor amenities, the interior will undergo a complete remodel. Old floors will be replaced, and the space will be updated with new finishes and layouts to make it more welcoming and functional. Restrooms, sinks and drinking fountains will be upgraded with accessible fixtures, and larger windows will bring in more natural light.

Contractor V. Stewart McKee, who recently completed the Burke Arts Council remodel, is expected to begin work July 7, according to Smith.

“We’ve been in preparations for the project to begin since February,” she said. “This has been a long process, and we are really excited to get started.”

Morganton Public Safety Chief Ryan Lander also spoke about the center’s legacy and the importance of continuing that mission.

“We’ve always collaborated with Morganton Public Housing Authority ever since I’ve been in public safety for 20 something years — it’s a relationship that’s very important to us. Fifteen or 16 years ago, the Housing Authority reopened this place, and now the children in the community come here at night — they have a safe place to go, to play, to do homework,” Lander said. “So, we’re really involved in the work that the Morganton Housing Authority is doing, and Victoria knows she can call us to partner for events.”

Lander’s remarks underscored the behind-the-scenes partnerships that have long supported the Andrade Center, from public safety to nonprofits and faith communities. That foundation is now fueling a larger reinvestment.

Mayor Thompson praised the project as more than a facelift — calling it a long-overdue investment in a neighborhood that has gone without for too long.

“It’s not just a remodel, it’s a revival,” he said. “This brings new life and new opportunity to a neighborhood that deserves both.”

County Commissioner Stroud echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the power of collaboration.

“It’s exciting to see everyone working together — bringing community and a vision together into one place for the good of this neighborhood,” he said. “This kind of unity doesn’t just happen by accident and it’s just beautiful to see.”

Stephenson, president of the Burke County Chamber of Commerce, noted the energy in the room and the importance of honoring both history and progress.

“Some of us are seeing this space for the first time — but we’ll be back,” she said. “We’re already looking forward to the ribbon cutting. This project isn’t just a win for the Housing Authority — it’s a win for Morganton.”

Smith, who later received a plaque from the Chamber, reflected on the community partnerships that made the project possible. She expressed deep gratitude to local churches and organizations — including Summit Community Church — that have supported the center’s programming.

“We’ve had to put a temporary pause on that work during renovations,” she said, “but I can’t wait to bring it all back. The support from this community has been amazing.”

Smith also emphasized the personal meaning behind the project.

“We want to honor the Andrade family with this project and make sure this place is never forgotten. We’re putting love back into a part of Morganton that truly needs it. This is going to be something special — for the kids, for the community. My heart is full,” she said.