City of Trenton and Mercer County Announce $1.3 Million Partnership to Reopen Reading Senior Center
The City of Trenton today announced a major step forward in reopening the historic Reading Senior Center, an 11,000-square-foot community landmark that has been closed for more than eight years.
Mayor W. Reed Gusciora, joined by Mercer County Executive Dan Benson and City Health Director Dr. Diego Minacapelli, as well as members of City Council, unveiled a $1.3 million rehabilitation plan that will restore and modernize the facility in two phases, with completion targeted for Fall 2026.
Mayor Gusciora stated, “Today is about keeping a promise to our seniors and to the residents of Trenton. This project was stopped once before, but we never gave up. I am grateful to our new City Council for their enthusiastic support and to County Executive Benson for stepping up with critical funding to get this done. The Reading Senior Center is more than a building. It is a lifeline. Our seniors built this city, and they deserve a safe, modern, and dignified space that honors their contributions.”
The County of Mercer is committing more than $600,000 in American Rescue Plan funds to jump-start construction. The City of Trenton will fund the remaining balance through federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.
“Mercer County is proud to partner with the City of Trenton to bring the Reading Senior Center back to life,” said County Executive Benson. “This investment reflects our shared commitment to seniors and to strengthening community infrastructure across the county. By leveraging American Rescue Plan funds alongside the City’s CDBG investment, we are ensuring this historic facility once again serves the residents who depend on it most.”
Originally constructed in 1888 as a train station for the Philadelphia and Reading Railroad, the building has been recognized as a historic landmark since the 1970s. For decades, it has served as a vital gathering place for Trenton’s seniors, providing meals, daily programming, social connection, and access to supportive services.
A prior renovation effort began several years ago but was halted by the previous City Council, bringing the project to a stop before completion.
Following the shutdown of construction, the vacant building was broken into and vandalized in February 2022 during the COVID-19 recovery period, causing additional damage and further delaying progress.
Director Minacapelli stated, “Senior centers are not just social spaces. They are public health assets. Access to nutritious meals, social engagement, wellness programming, and supportive services significantly improves health outcomes and quality of life. Reopening the Reading Senior Center will reduce isolation, strengthen connections, and provide critical support for low- and moderate-income seniors in our community.”
Today’s announcement marks a formal restart of the rehabilitation effort under new leadership and with renewed county partnership.
Project Scope
The rehabilitation will move forward in two coordinated phases:
Phase One
• Repair of vandalism damage
• Completion of the original renovation scope
• Mechanical system upgrades
• Installation of a new elevator to ensure full ADA accessibility
Phase Two
• Renovation of approximately 7,000 square feet
• New flooring, wall, and ceiling finishes
• Updated lighting and electrical systems
• Interior mechanical improvements
In addition, the project will incorporate new office space for the City of Trenton’s Office of Social Services, expanding access to assistance and improving coordination of care for residents in need.
