The City of Colorado Springs and the YMCA of the Pikes Peak region have opened a new Senior Center, marked by a ribbon cutting and open house attended by about 400 residents and community leaders.
The facility is the result of a partnership in which the City provides the building, while the YMCA manages daily programming and operations. The new Senior Center spans 23,000 square feet, offering more space than its predecessor.
“This brand-new, 23,000-square-foot Senior Center is more than brick and mortar. It is a promise that Colorado Springs is, and will remain, a city for our seniors,” said Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “Our seniors are the backbone of this community. They have raised families, built businesses, served in our military, and poured their hearts into the life of our city in countless ways. This new senior center stands as a reflection of our commitment to honor them, support them, and create spaces where they can continue to flourish for years to come.”
Tom Lathrop, Operations Director for the YMCA of the Pikes Peak region, added: “We are thrilled to open our state-of-the-art Senior Center in Colorado Springs, a vibrant space where seniors can Connect, Discover, and Enjoy. After two years of dedicated effort, this welcoming facility offers triple the parking, wider hallways for easy access, and more activity rooms filled with opportunities for enriching experiences. We invite our community to join us in building lasting connections for years to come.”
Construction began with mitigation work on the property in October 2023 after two years of formal planning; ground was broken on the new building in July 2024. The facility increases available space by nearly 6,000 square feet compared to its previous location.
Features include an open area designed for cooking classes and demonstrations; two indoor pickleball courts; expanded classrooms; dedicated dining and socializing areas; a kitchen serving meals provided by Silver Key Senior Services; technology learning facilities; a large fitness area; outdoor gathering spots; walking paths around the property; and significantly increased parking capacity.
Funding came from several sources: nearly $12.4 million was allocated from America Rescue Plan Act funds (https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/state-and-local-fiscal-recovery-funds), with additional support from Lyda Hill Philanthropies (https://www.lydahillphilanthropies.org/), Colorado Springs Health Foundation (https://cshf.net/), and federal Community Development Block Grant program (https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/comm_planning/communitydevelopment/programs). The total cost for the project is estimated at nearly $15.3 million.
More information about programs at the Colorado Springs Senior Center can be found at seniorcenter.ppymca.org.
