Givens Recreation Center
Programming at Givens Recreation Center will end on February 14, 2025, to allow staff to transition to the Britton, Durst, Howard, and Spence Building (also known as the Chestnut House) starting February 17, 2025.
City Council District 1
About
Address: 3811 East 12th St. Austin, TX 78721 See Map
Hours: Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday: 12 p.m.-4 p.m.
Phone: 512-974-2430
Since 1979, Givens Recreation Center has been serving the vibrant and historic community of East Austin. Located in the heart of the eastside, both the recreation center and the 40-acre park it resides in are named in memory of the legacy of Dr. Everett H. Givens (1888-1962), dentist, World War I veteran, and beloved civic leader. Givens Recreation Center continues Dr. Givens’ work by creating opportunities for all Austinites to take part in City of Austin programs and services and providing access to recreational facilities including a full-size gymnasium, multipurpose room, kitchen facility, weight room, and game room/lobby. The recreation center offers enriching programming for toddlers, youth, teens, and adults, as well as special holiday events for the community. The extensive park grounds are home to the Martin Banks Pavilion, two lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, picnic tables, playscape, multipurpose field, and a softball field while the pool is currently being renovated.
Programming at Givens Recreation Center will end on February 14, 2025, to allow staff to transition to the Britton, Durst, Howard, and Spence Building (also known as the Chestnut House) starting February 17, 2025.
New Location
Britton, Durst, Howard and Spence Building
AKA: Chestnut House
1183 Chestnut Avenue
Austin, Texas 78702
Key upgrades to the center from these projects include:
- HVAC System Replacement: For improved air quality and energy efficiency.
- New Roof Installation: A durable flat membrane roof for long-term protection.
- Gymnasium Roof and Solar Panel re-installation
- Gymnasium Enhancements: New windows to brighten and improve the space.
- Accessibility Improvements: Interior upgrades to ensure ADA compliance and inclusivity.
- Outdoor Upgrades: Replacement of concrete driveways and sidewalks for improved safety and access.
During renovations, there will be impacts on site operations. Staff is working to secure nearby locations to ensure programming continues uninterrupted, and Givens' signature events—including Easter, Youth Sports, and Back-to-School celebrations—will still take place.
Stay updated on construction schedules and programming changes through on-site postings, the Givens Recreation newsletter, this webpage and by signing up for the CDS construction newsletter.
For programming questions, please contact Chauncey Allen, Givens Recreation Center Program Supervisor or Amber Young, Givens Recreation Center Administrative Assistant.
For construction questions, please contact Christina Bies, Project Manager with CDS or George Maldonado, Project Manager with PARD.
- Out-Of-School Time Youth Programs
- Afterschool Kids Club Program
- C-Day and Spring Break Camps
- Youth Summer Camp
- Youth Sports
- Youth Sports
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Flag Football
- Teen Programs
- Teen Summer Camp
- Teen After School Program
- Teen Kickball Tournament
- Adult and 50+ Programs
- Varsity Generation
- Community and Special Events
- Spring Fling, Holiday Dinner
- Thanksgiving Community Dinner
- Howl-O-Scream, Movie & Game Night
- Youth Field Day, National Night Out
- Upcoming Events
Open Play, Weight Room, Rental and Staff
Open Play Basketball: CLOSED UNTIL FACILITY REOPENS
Weight Room Hours: CLOSED UNTIL FACILITY REOPENS
To inquire about a facility rental, please e-mail Tameisha Carter with the proposed date, time, and purpose of your event.
- Chauncey Allen Patterson Recreation Program Supervisor
- DeVon Odems Recreation Program Coordinator
- Mia Williams Program Specialist
- Caitlin Chang Administrative Assistant
- Vacant Program Specialist
- Adrian Castro Program Specialist
- Vacant Administrative Associate
- Glenn Guy Building & Grounds Assistant