ON THE JOB FOR MICHIGAN: Flint Leaders Discuss Storied History of Berston Field House, Highlight Peters’ Support for the Expansion & Renovation Project

FLINT, MI - In a new "On the Job for Michigan" video from U.S. Senator Gary Peters' (MI) office, community leaders in Flint highlight Peters' support for the expansion and preservation of Berston Field House, a historic landmark and community center in north Flint. Efforts are currently underway to preserve the 100-year-old building, and Peters secured a $6.3 million federal investment to support the project earlier this year.

"You hear Berston, and you think about all these athletes and these others have come through here," said James Avery, Executive Director of Berston Field House. "I think that's the memory I really have just continued to speak upon, is the history."

"The big thing for me is that the community needs to see that something of this magnitude is theirs. That's a one stop shop of education, health, performing arts, athletics," Avery continued.

"Berston has always been what we call, 'The Mainstage,'" said Justus Thigpen Sr., former NBA Player and past Executive Director of Berston Field House."I've been coming here ever since I was 10 years old, my dad taught me how to swim in the swimming pool that was here, everyone associates with Berston."

Watch the "On the Job" video here.

"For more than a century, Berston Field House has been a gathering place for Flint residents. It's important that this historic landmark continues to serve the community for generations to come," said Peters. "I commend James Avery, Justus Thigpen Sr., and all the folks who are leading the charge on this revitalization project, and I was proud to be a federal partner in their efforts."

The federal funding secured by Peters will support revitalization efforts, which include building renovations and construction of a new recreation center. In August, Peters kicked off his 2026 Motorcycle Tour at Berston Field House to celebrate the project and tour ongoing construction.

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