Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash said, “This is the first time funding from the voter-approved SPLOST has been allocated specifically for capital projects that benefit our senior population. I can’t wait to get this new senior center up and running to serve senior residents in southern Gwinnett County.”
The 8,500-square-foot single-story facility will include a dining room, warming kitchen with serving line, multi-purpose room, billiards area, staff offices, and support space. It will serve as a nutrition site offering healthy meals that meet one-third of the daily recommended intake. Programming will promote healthy lifestyles and celebrate the diversity of Gwinnett residents 60 and older with activities that promote socialization and health and wellness.
District 3 Commissioner Tommy Hunter said, “Like other new County buildings recently, this one will be LEED-certified for sustainability and efficiency.” The design anticipates older individuals with mobility, visual and hearing challenges engaged in activities to stay active and thriving in the community. Participants will also enjoy card games, billiards and interactive Wii-Fit games for increased mobility and strength. Programs will include tai chi for arthritis, fall prevention classes and chronic disease self-management classes, including one taught in Spanish.
The Gwinnett County Health and Human Services Division operates similar senior centers in Buford, Lawrenceville and Norcross, with a satellite center operating at the Centerville Community Center since 2013. Parks and Recreation also runs senior centers at Bethesda Park and George Pierce Park.
Added Hunter, “After visiting the satellite senior center a few times now, I have seen the how popular it is with seniors in the area. I am excited that the new center will serve even more seniors who make up a fast-growing demographic in our community.”
