Large Crowd Celebrates the Reopening of the DeCorso Center in New Providence
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ – Mayor Al Morgan, Assemblywoman Michele Matsikoudis, New Providence elected officials, along with many community leaders were on site for the DeCorso Community Center’s “Grand Reopening” nearly a year since Tropical Storm Ida caused significant water damage to the facility.
Speaking in a room of over 100 attendees, Mayor Morgan exclaimed, “Welcome back,” and was quickly met with applause and cheers. “This senior center is such a big part of this community, you built this community, and we are happy to have you back,” he said.
“It looks terrific, I have seen the art room, and it looks beautiful,” said Linda Howe. Adding, “I live around the block I hope to be here often if they get exercise classes going again.”
Christine Maletano expressed joy, but also reflected on the path to the reopening, stating, “for us, this center has been closed since March 2020,“ due to the pandemic. “We lost a lot of members, it’s very bittersweet to be coming back here, but I am so glad.”
Allison Smith, Director of Community Activities, said the center suffered severe damage from floor to ceiling. “All the floors needed to be replaced, walls were cut four feet up and replaced all the way around; new paint, new ceiling, we had to replace everything,” she said.
During the time the center was under the repair, seniors temporarily resumed their activities in the municipal center. “Allison and the whole Recreational Department have been fabulous having us over, it’s been wonderful,” said Michelle Zack, Senior Center Coordinator.
Zack and Arthi Shri Selvaraj, Senior Center Program Coordinator, came up with a list of activities the seniors enjoyed most, and designed the new and improved space to accommodate the activities. Some changes include the flex room, which was previously a storage room and is now being used as a fitness room and possibly a rec room. The room directly adjacent to the great room, which was previously never used will be used as the treasurer’s office as well as a place for book club, knitting club, discussion, and small gatherings. The previous fitness space is now being used as the art room and is filled with art created by seniors.
The DeCorso Community Center is located at 15 East Fourth Street, New Providence. To reach the DeCorso Community Center, please call (908) 665-0046 or e-mail decorsocenter@newprov.us.
