Monday, February 17, 2025
Nassau County’s decision to partner with the Marion & Aaron Gural JCC and the Police Activity League to revitalize the Five Towns Community Center marks a significant leap forward for the facility.
After more than a century of serving the community in various forms, the building on Lawrence Avenue, in Lawrence, will soon be transformed into a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet residents’ evolving needs. This bold initiative underscores a commitment to inclusivity, modernization and the long-term well-being of all who will make use of it.
The plan to demolish and rebuild the aging structure isn’t just a necessity — it is a promise fulfilled. County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s vision to elevate the community center to a higher standard is evident in the collaboration among the county, the Gural JCC and PAL. It embodies the very spirit of community service, combining expertise, funding and dedication to create a hub that will cater to residents of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
One of the most significant elements of this project is its inclusivity. While the Gural JCC will take the lead, the new facility will be open to everyone, reflecting the center’s longstanding tradition of serving the diverse needs of the Five Towns. From infants to seniors and including those who are neurodiverse, the center will offer programming and resources designed to uplift and empower all members of the community. This commitment ensures that the new space will be more than just a building — it will be a beacon of connection and opportunity.
The planned amenities are impressive and tailored to modern needs. A new gym and swimming pool, and expanded spaces for after-school activities, senior programming and community gatherings, promise to breathe new life into the neighborhood. The inclusion of PAL in the project will ensure that robust youth programs remain accessible to all, further strengthening the center’s role as a community anchor.
Along with its role as a recreational hub, the new facility will be a catalyst for community engagement. The decision to solicit input from residents by way of meetings and emails is a commendable approach that prioritizes local voices. Gural JCC Executive Director Stacey Feldman’s commitment to listen to community members’ needs and ideas ensures that the facility will truly reflect the aspirations of the people it serves. This collaborative process will not only build trust, but also lay the groundwork for a space that will be embraced by all.
The investment of at least $10 million by the JCC is another testament to the seriousness of this undertaking. The money will support cutting-edge amenities while ensuring that the new facility meets the highest standards of accessibility and sustainability. Coupled with the county’s leadership and PAL’s involvement, the project represents a model of public-private partnership that other communities should aspire to emulate.
We believe the projected timeline — six months of planning, and construction not to exceed three years — is ambitious yet achievable.
The initiative also serves as a reminder of the importance of adapting to changing times. The current building, despite its rich history, can no longer meet current residents’ and visitors’ demands. By embracing modernization while honoring the past, the new community center will build on its legacy as a vital resource for generations to come.
In reimagining this space, the county and its partners aren’t just constructing a building; they are investing in the future. We look forward to this partnership creating a space where people can thrive, families can connect and the community can grow stronger together, keeping the promise of inclusivity and serving everyone.
