News and Articles

Santa Fe, NM- Beginning July 15, 2024, the Abedon Lopez/Santa Cruz Senior Center will be temporarily closed for demolition and the construction of a new building. This extensive development project, expected to be completed in the fall of 2025, is part of Santa Fe County’s commitment to providing our seniors with modernly enhanced facilities and services.

With a project budget of $6,110,955, consisting of $4,075,891 State capital outlay appropriations and $2,035,064 County funds, the new building will be 4,558 square feet and will feature:

• A spacious dining room with large patio doors to the western view
• A versatile activity room
• An advanced HVAC system for improved comfort
• A deep protected portal for outdoor activities and lounging
• Safe accessibility that is fully ADA compliant
• A modern kitchen with new equipment
• An expanded pantry

To ensure continued access to essential services, we encourage seniors to visit the Bennie J. Chavez or El Rancho Senior Center during this period. Santa Fe County will be providing transportation services for those who wish to participate in congregate dining and activities at the El Rancho Senior Center. Importantly, home-delivered meal service will continue without interruption.

Transportation Schedule to and from El Rancho Senior Center

Pickup

8:30 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. - Espanola Park and Ride  

8:55 a.m. – 9:10 a.m. - Santa Claran Parking lot

9:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. - Cities of Gold Casino Park and Ride lot

Drop-off

3:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Cities of Gold Casino Park and Ride lot

3:50 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Santa Claran Parking lot

4:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. Espanola Park and Ride

Commissioner Justin Greene expressed his enthusiasm for the project stating, “We are excited for the redevelopment of the Abedon Lopez Senior Center. It is a beloved center for the community and near and dear to me from my visits to the Española Valley. The new facility will bring needed amenities and expanded spaces to the Española community that will serve for generations to come. We want to especially thank our State Legislators for providing capital funding to make this possible.”

Santa Fe County deeply values our elders and is dedicated to making thoughtful investments in our facilities to enhance the experiences and services offered by our Senior Program. We recognize that the construction may be inconvenient, but we are committed to supporting our seniors through this transition and look forward to welcoming everyone back to a new facility.

Studio SW Architects is the architect of record for the project. Jaynes Corporation is the general contractor.

For more information about our senior services, please call 505-992-3069.

####