Heard Park (formerly East Athens Community Center)

Temporary Facility Closure:  The Lay Park Community Center will be closed to the public  from Saturday, November 22 until Monday, December 1.  This closure is due to necessary gym floor maintenance.


The facility is equipped with a gymnasium, full-service kitchen, and a multi-purpose room on the main floor; a game room, fitness room, and dance room on the second floor; and a library, arts and crafts room, and another multi-purpose room on the third floor.

The center underwent a SPLOST funded renovation in 2001 and 2002.

Events and Activities:

Heard Park and Community Center is open to the public and has online registration for programs for adults and children. All programs are available to Athens-Clarke County residents and non-county residents.  

If you haven’t done so already, create a free online account at www.accgov.com/leisure.

Those wishing to apply for or renew a scholarship, must do so at least five business day prior to registering for a camp or program.

For more information call 706-613-3593


Check out the Park Finder to see all the amenities at this park.

Aaron Heard Park and Community Center Park Dedication

On December 19, 2021, this park was renamed for Aaron Heard, a former supervisor of the park and lifelong resident of the Athens area. The event was attended by family members, friends, and elected officials.