Plans are being drawn up for a new multigenerational facility for young people and seniors in Albuquerque’s Santa Barbara-Martineztown Park.
The community center, which will be 5,000 square feet, is part of a $4 million project to renovate the park, according to KRQE. It will host senior meals and out-of-school programs, offer a computer lab, and serve as a venue for meetings.
“The city is committed to expanding families’ access to resources, programming, and spaces for fellowship,” Albuquerque Mayor, Tim Keller, told KRQE. “As one of our city’s most historic neighborhoods, it’s great to see Santa Barbara-Martineztown getting a modern community space that will be enjoyed for generations to come.”
The center is expected to be completed in 2024, according to KRQE.
The city already has two multigenerational centers, one at Manzano Mesa on Elizabeth SE. and North Domingo Baco on Carmel Ave. NE. All senior and multigenerational centers offer free/donation-based lunch to adults aged 60-plus, according to its website. A $2 donation is appreciated, but not required.
For adults ages 50 to 59, lunch is available for $3.25. Highland, Los Volcanes, Palo Duro, and Bear Canyon senior centers also offer low-cost made-to-order menu options in addition to the regular senior lunch program. All sites offer a low-cost breakfast program Monday through Friday, from 8 to 9 a.m.
Adults under the age of 50 can visit the two multigenerational centers and can purchase lunch for $7.67. New participants will be required to register for membership to continue services. New memberships have a $20 annual fee; however, a fee waiver can be requested.
The centers are growing in popularity and provide a resource for Albuquerque's 50+ population to enjoy sports and recreation activities, the arts, learning opportunities, trips, meals, special events, and support groups at any of the metro area's eight centers, according to the website.
Educational and social activities include computing, health management, concerts, lectures, theater, pottery, breakfast, lunch, and support groups. Recreational and sports activities include hiking, downhill skiing, aerobics, and a range of other indoor and outdoor sports and fitness opportunities.
