The Town of Florence is stepping back from plans for a multi-generational center due to insufficient demand and prohibitive costs. At the January 13, 2025 council meeting, Community Services Director Paul King reported “insufficient demand for the project in Florence.” While the Capital Improvement Plan had a $31 million placeholder for the project, vendor estimates put total costs at approximately $50 million for design, site work, construction, permitting, and equipment, according to council documents.
Public Response and Survey Data
An April 2024 survey conducted as part of Architekton’s predesign phase revealed financial and demographic challenges for the proposed facility. Of the 735 survey respondents, 41% were unwilling to pay any membership fees. While respondents expressed interest in amenities such as a multipurpose room, weight/cardio fitness area, and activity rooms, the combination of limited financial support and the projected $50 million cost raised concerns. The market analysis conducted alongside the survey indicated that Florence’s current population base would be insufficient to sustain such a large facility.
Teen Center Priority
During the January council session, council members advocated for immediate solutions focused on youth services, with Councilmember Arthur Neal urging the swift re-purposing of existing buildings into a dedicated teen center. Vice Mayor Cathy Adam highlighted the importance of designing a space specifically for teens, noting that they “need a place to call home” without sharing it with vastly different age groups.
Current Facility Constraints
Florence’s existing facilities are showing significant strain, particularly during peak hours. The library faces heavy crowding on Wednesdays when schools release early, with Neal describing “wall to wall kids” waiting for parent pickup. This congestion affects both youth activities and regular library services.
Alternative Approaches
Several council members and residents suggested phased development as a more manageable approach. Councilmember Nicole Buccellato suggested utilizing the Aquatic Center during its approximately eight-month off-season, while Councilmember Tony Bencina advocated for increased teen program funding to support activities like basketball nights, pickleball, and community center dances.
Partnership Opportunities
Councilmember Jose Maldonado proposed forming an ad hoc committee to explore partnerships, citing successful Boys and Girls Club collaborations in other communities. “It takes a village to try to come together and come with all these solutions and put all these monies together to try to make something viable,” Maldonado emphasized. The Boys & Girls Club has shown interest in partnering with the town, according to Mr. King.
Moving Forward
With staff recommending closure of the $50 million multi-generational center project at the current time, the council’s discussions have shifted toward youth services and public-private partnerships as potential solutions for addressing Florence’s immediate community needs. The focus appears to be moving toward developing practical, affordable options that can be implemented quickly while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
