The City of New Haven announced the soft opening of the newly renovated Trowbridge Recreation Center on August 10, marking the revival of a historic building that has served the Hill neighborhood for nearly a century. Located at 160 Carlisle Street in the Trowbridge Square section of the Hill, the center now provides a drop‑in resource hub for seniors and will soon host a youth drop‑in program.
Senior Services Begin Immediately
City spokesperson Lenny Speiller said the Elderly Services Department has staffed the center with one employee who assists seniors with socializing, accessing the renters’ rebate program, and connecting to the farmers’ market nutrition program. The center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a safe, welcoming space for older residents to gather.
Expanded Programming Planned
When fully operational, the center will expand its senior offerings to include arts and crafts, yoga, tai chi, line dancing, and other group activities, as well as workshops and discussion groups. The Youth and Recreation Department will run a youth drop‑in center beginning September 8, giving young people a place to hang out, socialize, and use the facility for recreational activities.
Community Leaders Praise the Project
Hill Alder Carmen Rodriguez thanked State Rep. Juan Candelaria, Housing and Development Administration Deputy Administrator Arlevia Samuel, former Hill Alder Dolores Colon, and longtime neighborhood advocates such as Helen Martin for helping bring the project to fruition. “We’re very excited,” Rodriguez said, noting that the renovation transforms a once‑blighted building into a vibrant community asset.
Mayor Elicker Highlights Intergenerational Vision
Mayor Justin Elicker emphasized the center’s role as an intergenerational hub where children, youth, adults, and seniors can gather, enjoy activities, and access resources. He noted that the Trowbridge Recreation Center is the most ambitious of six community sites the city has completed under his administration. “Residents of the Hill have been asking for this building to be restored for almost 20 years,” the mayor wrote, “and it’s incredibly exciting to open its doors again.”
Looking Ahead
The city plans an official grand opening in September, which will include a ribbon‑cutting ceremony and further community celebration. The revitalized Trowbridge Square Park adjacent to the center will also benefit from the renewed focus on neighborhood engagement.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
