Last night I attended the informational meeting for the Hill Center. The Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. You’ve seen it. And probably wondered WHAT HAPPENED?
The meeting was held at Watkins School, and once I settled my adult derriere into one of those tiny elementary school chairs, we got started with a video. This short video provided a well done brief history of the building and amazing artist renditions of the plans for the new Center. I was impressed. The Hill Center will create a “cultural destination” on the Hill. Given the Eastern Market renovations and the revival of Barracks Row, plus the plans for Hine Junior High, this is a great opportunity to further the cultural and community development of our neighborhood.
Jennifer Smith led the meeting. 100% dedicated to the cause, I’d say since she is literally moving to Rhode Island today. She shared the Board’s vision and some of the possibilities for the Center. Ms. Smith’s background is in education, so I will say there is a definite slant toward all things learning.
The plan is for 12 multi-use rooms on the main floor, plus some additional rooms on the second floor, along with a working kitchen. The upstairs will serve as offices for non-profits (for a small fee). Some of the feedback the Board received during focus groups was the lack of meeting space on the Hill, so along with the educational and cultural offerings at the Center, during the day businesses can use the space for meetings and conferences, and the hope is for organizations to host evening receptions as well. There are also plans to renovate the carriage house and the grounds, including a family-friendly cafe.
While the offerings are not set in stone yet, a brief run-down is adult education, fitness classes for mothers and children, BrainFood (a training course in the culinary arts for high school students), educational courses/training for teachers, instrumental music lessons, creative writing, painting, and senior services.
Given that there are other arts organizations on the Hill, the Center will serve as a satellite for some of these organizations, adding to their offerings rather than competing.
A few other “business” notes. The Board recognizes the lack of parking in the area and the goal is not for this to be a burden to the local residents. Obviously the hope is that community members will walk to the Center or take public transportation. During larger events, they hope to partner with some of the local schools with lots and shuttle people over. So hopefully parking will be a non-issue. (I know, I know…) In terms of funding and the financials, the Center will be self-sustaining. As I mentioned earlier, office space on the third floor will be rented out, and there will be fees for classes and events. There is also talk of a possible membership, to be determined if there is a cost for this or if it’s more of a tracking system. Regardless of membership, the Board said the Center will be accessible to all.
So when will this community center open, you might be wondering? The Board hopes to have everything up-and-running by June 2011.
If you have questions or comments, the Board welcomes them at comments@hillcenteronh.org.