The City of Coronado is proud to present the John D. Spreckels Center and Bowling Green, which opened April 12, 2017. The project reflected a four-year process involving significant public input to determine the elements of a facility that will serve a vibrant Coronado 50-plus citizenry long into the future. The Spreckels Center is a 9,010-square-foot building adjacent to the Coronado Public Library and across from Spreckels Park.
The Center was constructed primarily with a bequest from longtime resident and philanthropist Frances G. Harpst. The Spreckels Center, owned and operation by the City of Coronado, is a new community focal point for Coronado residents. It offers a wide variety of programs and services including health, fitness, and wellness programs, volunteer and civic engagement opportunities, educational and arts programs, and inter-generational programs.
Designed by Architect Robert R. Coffee and Associates, the project engages Spreckels Park on one side and the lawn bowling green on the other, and brings both into the facility by way of an open floor plan and large windows. Centrally located in the community with easy access for patrons, the building materials have been selected with a sensitivity toward using natural finishes.
The City Council directed that the building be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED certified and staff expects it will be awarded a Silver designation. During the May 17, 2016 Council meeting, the John D. Spreckels Center and Bowling Green Operations Plan (PDF) was presented and approved. The facility has Wi-Fi, and informational display panels for daily and weekly programs. It has a large multipurpose room, which accommodates large gatherings for popular programming as well as smaller spaces dedicated to specific programs such as art and enrichment classes. A catering kitchen and two outdoor living and patio areas make this new home for Coronado residents the perfect gathering spot.
