Take a look at Martineztown’s new multigenerational center

There’s a new spot near the Big I where residents can share a meal, use a computer or play pickleball. 

A new multigenerational center was unveiled Tuesday near the Santa Barbara Martineztown Park. 

“Generations of New Mexicans all need a safe space, we know it’s important for seniors and our youth to have access to amenities and programs,” said Mayor Tim Keller.

Keller unveiled the new center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday along with Director of Senior Affairs Anna Sanchez and community members.

The new 5,000-square-foot facility includes an indoor pickleball court, computer lab, classroom, warming kitchen, lobby and office area. It will also provide senior meals, out-of-school programs, and many opportunities for fitness, recreation and social enrichment.

According to the city, the site plans call to preserve the park’s green space, baseball fields and historic mural.

The construction of the new multigenerational center was announced in June 2023, and the project cost approximately $5 million start to finish. Future projects at the site include new playground equipment and various improvements at Santa Barbara Martineztown Park. According to the city, Santa Barbara Martineztown is the third multigenerational center in Albuquerque. 

The department also manages North Domingo Baca Multigenerational Center, which opened in 2011 in northeast Albuquerque, and Manzano Mesa Multigenerational Center in southeast Albuquerque. A fourth multigenerational center is being built in the northwest part of the city near Cibola High School.

Loretta Naranjo Lopez, president of the neighborhood association for Santa Barbara Martineztown, said the group has worked hard to open the center.

“We know that if the kids aren’t occupied and doing these things, getting involved in sport then they’ll be more likely to go into crime,” she said. “We want to keep them off the streets.”

(1) The new dance floor for seniors at Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center. (2) A Mariachi trumpet player performs after the ribbon-cutting ceremony. (3) Mayor Tim Keller, children, and seniors cut the ribbon to introduce Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center. (4) Loretta Naranjo Lopez, president of the neighborhood association for Santa Barbara Martineztown, speaks at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. (5) The new computer lab located in Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center. (6) Community members gather outside of the Santa Barbara Martineztown Multigenerational Center. (Roberto E. Rosales / City Desk ABQ)

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