After eight years in the making, the newly opened City of Arlington East Library and Recreation Center (ELARC) celebrated its grand opening in November 2020. During a 2014 Bond Election, Arlington voters approved $26 million for a new facility to replace the aging Hugh Smith Recreation Center and the East Branch Library. The newly constructed 47,250 sq. ft. facility offers a variety of programs, amenities, and resources for residents of all ages.

ELARC was created to be a single building with two distinct functions, architects were inspired by the architecture and automotive designs from the 1950s and today. The intertwining of curved and angular elements, joined by a shared lobby space creates a state-of-the-art facility that honors Arlington’s history while providing a modern space for present and future generations.

The recreation side of the facility features an indoor pool, a gymnasium with full-size basketball court, multiple workout locations, locker rooms, a group exercise room, a senior lounge, community rooms, a childcare center, and outdoor recreational amenities.