1099 KING STREET

Originally built in 1933 and designed by David B. Hyer, Old Station No. 9 served as a firehouse before being repurposed in the 1980s into a community boxing gym by boxer Al “Hollywood” Meggett. The facility provided a safe space for inner-city youth until its closure in 2018 due to structural concerns.

GBA Architecture was commissioned to renovate the historic building, which was rededicated in 2019 as the Reverend Alma Dungee Community Center & Boxing Gym. The project preserved the structure’s historic character while enhancing its functionality and safety.

Renovation Highlights:

Exterior: Restored brickwork, repaired windows, and a new storefront entrance that enhances accessibility and ties the space to the community

Interior: Exposed structural elements to showcase craftsmanship, reinforced beams and columns, and incorporated historic elements like the fireman’s pole as a visual feature.

Mechanical Updates: Sensitively upgraded lighting, HVAC, and finishes to respect the firehouse’s industrial origins while modernizing for current use.

Today, the renovated firehouse at 1099 King Street serves as a vibrant community space, continuing its legacy of fostering resilience and unity.