Worcester Jewish Community Center

Worcester, Massachusetts

The 1997 expansion of the WJCC is divided into three segments: an educational addition, a recreational addition and general renovations to the existing facility.

The educational component, a day care center for preschool age children, is in a separately controlled wing located off the main center and is composed of seven classrooms equipped for state-mandated skill development programs. The encircling playgrounds are accessed directly from the classrooms.

The recreational component of the WJCC has been expanded with a new 6 lane, 25-yard indoor pool, an aerobics and gymnastic area, a weight/cardiovascular area and health clubs for men and women.

General renovations to the WJCC include refurbishing of the finishes, lighting and a new entrance. Safety improvements and handicapped accessibility for compliance with current code regulations improved the entire facility.

Photography: Robert Benson.

Preschool Common Area: Worcester Jewish Community Center.

View of preschool common area

Preschool: Worcester Jewish Community Center.

View of preschool

Prior to the renovations, parking surrounded both the front and back of the building. The revised site plan directs the parking towards the front of the building allowing the rear portion of the site to remain open for scheduled community and group activities such as outdoor plays, picnics, sporting events and day care playgrounds. The landscaping is integrated into the activities of the WJCC, enhancing the feeling of health and well being, a concept which the community center promotes.

The day care addition, constructed of materials similar to that of the existing structure, has a varied roof line, entrance canopies and playful banners designed to reduce the scale of the addition.

The new indoor swimming pool opens onto a south facing courtyard leading directly to the existing outdoor pools.

Renovated Entrance: Worcester Jewish Community Center.

View of renovated entrance

Swimming Pool: Worcester Jewish Community Center.

View of swimming pool

Swimming Pool Entrance: Worcester Jewish Community Center.

View of pool entrance