Oakland Celebrates the Grand Reopening of the West Oakland Senior Cent
Published on October 21, 2026
Oakland, CA – This morning, Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, City leaders, and community members gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of the West Oakland Senior Center, marking a major milestone in Oakland’s commitment to providing safe and welcoming public space that promotes seniors' wellbeing.
“Investing in the West Oakland Senior Center protects our older adults from the serious health risks of loneliness by restoring community, connection, and dignity,” said Mayor Barbara Lee. “This reopening is long overdue, but reflects a promise kept. West Oakland now has a modern, accessible hub for crafts, fitness, and essential social services, while ensuring every Oakland resident can age with the health, independence, and respect they deserve.”
Located across from the historic DeFremery Park and the West Oakland Branch of the Oakland Public Library, the West Oakland Senior Center serves as an important hub for programs, social connection, and supportive services. “Our seniors deserve spaces where they feel valued, supported, and connected. The reopening of the West Oakland Senior Center represents a critical investment in the well-being and quality of life of our older residents, said Councilmember Carroll Fife. "This revitalized space will provide opportunities for seniors to access essential services, build meaningful relationships, and remain active in the community they love. I’m excited to see this center once again serve as a place of connection, care, and belonging in West Oakland.”
Following a two-year renovation, the building has reopened with enhancements designed to improve comfort, safety, and ease of access for members who rely on its services each day. The renovations include new ADA accessible path of travel and electrification of major building systems, including of the HVAC system and the commercial kitchen. Additional work included interior and exterior paint, lighting upgrades, ceiling repairs, and second-story window replacements. The project modernized core systems, making the 12,000 square foot facility safer, more functional, and easier to navigate.
“Our goal was to open a facility that supports essential programming—from social gatherings to meals and wellness activities,” said Jimmy Mach, Assistant Director of Oakland Public Works. “These upgrades ensure the center remains reliable and efficient so that members have a place where they can thrive.”
Funding for the $3 million project was provided through Measure KK, which supported facility upgrades and path-of-travel improvements. A CalRecycle grant funded the purchase and installation of new energy efficient kitchen appliances. Together, these investments help ensure that the West Oakland Senior Center remains a welcoming and dependable community resource for Oakland’s older adults for years to come.
“Reopening the West Oakland Senior Center strengthens the network of care our seniors rely on every day.” said Greg Elliott Interim Director of the Human Services Department. “This center is a place for people to gather, connect, and feel seen.”
Betty Hicks, Chair for the West Oakland Senior Center Advisory Council added, “For many of us, this center is a second home. WOSC provides us with a safe, nurturing, caring, and loving environment. It keeps us connected. These improvements demonstrate that the voices of Oakland seniors’ matter.”
The ribbon cutting ceremony included music, light refreshments, and remarks from City leadership and community partners.
Residents over the age of 55, interested in becoming a member and participating in programs and services are invited to visit the West Oakland Senior Center or call (510) 238-7016, Mondays through Thursday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm for more information.
About Human Services Department / Aging & Adult Services
The Oakland Human Services Department exists to make our city a place that works for all. We offer free programs and provide public resources to community organizations that make sure all of our residents can access what they need to be safe, healthy and realize their full potential.
The City provides programming that support independence, safety, health, and active living for seniors. Aging and Adult Services works with community partners to deliver services that include care management, jobs, training, volunteering, recreation and transportation assistance.
About Oakland Public Works
Oakland Public Works is charged with building, maintaining, and improving the City’s infrastructure including public buildings, sanitary and storm sewers, lighting, and City-owned vehicles and equipment. Public Works provides or administers essential environmental services including solid waste and recycling services; illegal dumping abatement; street sweeping; maintenance of parks, trees, and medians; and watershed management.
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