ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the opening of the new Legacy Wellness Center on Friday May,19, 2026.

The project is the first phase of revitalizing the Harlem district in downtown Albany. The center will house medical research, dental practices, and healthcare services for underserved community members.

“People are going to come to Albany to Harlem to get healthcare, and it’s going to be quality healthcare. We are not only talking about bringing quality healthcare but also helping others improve the quality of healthcare that everyone gets because of the research and because of the standards that we will set here.”

The project is a joint effort between Mount Zion Community Investment Corporation and the Harlem Renaissance Corporation.

Mayor Bo Dorough said more projects to rejuvenate the district are on the way.

“The city is also invested in Harlem. We are in the process of completely renovating Carver Gym. It’s going to be something, but also we are on the verge of obtaining bids to renovate the Ritz Theater. It’s going to be nice,” Dorough said.

Investors in the project said this was an investment in economic prosperity for the community. City leaders hope this project will amplify the work being done to bring life back to downtown Albany.

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