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<\/p>\nPublished on October 21, 2026<\/p>\n
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Oakland, CA \u2013 This morning, Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, City leaders, and community members gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of the West Oakland Senior Center, marking a major milestone in Oakland\u2019s commitment to providing safe and welcoming public space that promotes seniors’ wellbeing.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cInvesting in the West Oakland Senior Center protects our older adults from the serious health risks of loneliness by restoring community, connection, and dignity,\u201d said Mayor Barbara Lee. \u201cThis reopening is long overdue, but reflects a promise kept. West Oakland now has a modern, accessible hub for crafts, fitness, and essential social services, while ensuring every Oakland resident can age with the health, independence, and respect they deserve.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Located across from the historic DeFremery Park and the West Oakland Branch of the Oakland Public Library, the West Oakland Senior Center serves as an important hub for programs, social connection, and supportive services. \u201cOur seniors deserve spaces where they feel valued, supported, and connected. The reopening of the West Oakland Senior Center represents a critical investment in the well-being and quality of life of our older residents, said Councilmember Carroll Fife. “This revitalized space will provide opportunities for seniors to access essential services, build meaningful relationships, and remain active in the community they love. I\u2019m excited to see this center once again serve as a place of connection, care, and belonging in West Oakland.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Following a two-year renovation, the building has reopened with enhancements designed to improve comfort, safety, and ease of access for members who rely on its services each day. The renovations include new ADA accessible path of travel and electrification of major building systems, including of the HVAC system and the commercial kitchen. Additional work included interior and exterior paint, lighting upgrades, ceiling repairs, and second-story window replacements. The project modernized core systems, making the 12,000 square foot facility safer, more functional, and easier to navigate.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cOur goal was to open a facility that supports essential programming\u2014from social gatherings to meals and wellness activities,\u201d said Jimmy Mach, Assistant Director of Oakland Public Works. \u201cThese upgrades ensure the center remains reliable and efficient so that members have a place where they can thrive.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Funding for the $3 million project was provided through Measure KK, which supported facility upgrades and path-of-travel improvements. A CalRecycle grant funded the purchase and installation of new energy efficient kitchen appliances. Together, these investments help ensure that the West Oakland Senior Center remains a welcoming and dependable community resource for Oakland\u2019s older adults for years to come.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cReopening the West Oakland Senior Center strengthens the network of care our seniors rely on every day.\u201d said Greg Elliott Interim Director of the Human Services Department. \u201cThis center is a place for people to gather, connect, and feel seen.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Betty Hicks, Chair for the West Oakland Senior Center Advisory Council added, \u201cFor many of us, this center is a second home. WOSC provides us with a safe, nurturing, caring, and loving environment. It keeps us connected. These improvements demonstrate that the voices of Oakland seniors\u2019 matter.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
The ribbon cutting ceremony included music, light refreshments, and remarks from City leadership and community partners.\u00a0<\/p>\n