Plans are underway for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the John D. Spreckels Center and Bowling Green on Thursday, December 8.
The community is invited to attend the ceremony set for 3 p.m. at the site, 1019 Seventh St. Although the facility will not open until early next year, the City is working to ensure the facility is in shape for the event.
The Spreckels Center project reflects a four-year process involving significant public input to determine the elements of a facility that will serve a vibrant Coronado 50-plus citizenry long into the future.
The 9,010-square-foot Spreckels Center is adjacent to the Coronado Public Library and Coronado Police facility, and across from Spreckels Park. It was constructed primarily with a bequest from longtime resident and philanthropist Frances G. Harpst, who passed away in 2010.
Her bequest reflected her love for Coronado. Harpst was a private person and a silent donor to numerous local charities, many of which will never be known because she often gave anonymously. She was a major contributor to the Pacific Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) of Coronado and donated a Coronado residence to the group. The sale of that property assisted in the funding of the construction of Coronado’s new Animal Care Facility.
The Spreckels Center, owned and operated by the City of Coronado, will offer a wide variety of programs and services including health, fitness and wellness programs, volunteer and civic engagement opportunities, educational and arts programs, and intergenerational programs beginning in February.
Designed by Architect Robert Coffee, the project engages Spreckels Park on one side and the lawn bowling green on the other and brings both into the facility by way of an open floor plan and large windows.
Centrally located in the community with easy access for patrons, the building materials have been selected with a sensitivity towards using natural finishes.
The City Council directed that the building be LEED-certified and staff expects it will be awarded a LEED Silver designation. The facility has Wi-Fi, and informational display panels for daily and weekly programs. It has a large multipurpose room, which accommodates large gatherings for popular programming, such as Armchair Travel, as well as smaller spaces dedicated to specific programs and activities such as bridge or book clubs.
An up-to-date kitchen facility and dedicated outdoor living and patio areas make this new home for Coronado residents the perfect gathering spot.
The local and state Freemasons held a traditional cornerstone ceremony in late November for the site.
Related: Joining the Senior Center Information
