JaxParks

The Henry T. Jones Community Center is part of the Pine Forest neighborhood located southwest of the Emerson Street and Philips Highway intersection in Southside. The City of Jacksonville acquired the property (including the building) from individuals in 1979-80. Mr. Jones organized and served as president of the Pine Forest Community Action Committee for over 38 years. A masonry contractor for 28 years, Mr. Jones built the swimming pool at Pine Forest Park and also arranged activities and summer field trips for youths in the area. Moreover, he coached the baseball team for over thirty years. Improvements over the years have included a senior citizen nutrition program initiated in 1985, a youth summer camp, and a major renovation of the Center in 2000.