Santa Fe County held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 22, 2025, to mark the grand reopening of the Abedon Lopez Sr. Senior Center in Santa Cruz. The event was attended by local officials, members of the Abedon Lopez family, and community residents. The redevelopment project replaced the previous facility, which was demolished in 2024 due to age, accessibility issues, and limited capacity.
The new 5,000-square-foot center was designed by Studio Southwest Architects, Inc. and built by Jaynes Corporation. Construction reached substantial completion on October 14, 2025. The building is fully electric, except for the kitchen, and features enhanced ADA accessibility, additional parking, and improved lighting.
District 1 Commissioner Justin Greene said, “We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of the new Abedon Lopez Sr. Senior Center in Santa Cruz! This beautiful space reflects Santa Fe County’s deep commitment to caring for our communities and honoring our seniors who have given so much to this region. It’s more than just a building—it’s a place for connection, support, nourishment, arts, and joy. With a Boys and Girls Club space next door and its role as an election center, this facility truly serves residents of all ages, bringing generations together and strengthening the heart of our county.”
The upgraded center includes a large dining room with patio doors, a flexible activity room, a reading area, an ADA-compliant layout, a modern kitchen with new equipment and expanded pantry space, an advanced HVAC system, and an outdoor portal for activities.
Anne Ryan, Community Services Director for Santa Fe County, commented on the collaborative effort behind the project: “We’re thrilled by the results, and more importantly grateful to the many people and organizations who made this possible,” Ryan said. “Thank you to the Board of County Commissioners and to the State of New Mexico’s Aging and Long-Term Services Department for your ongoing support. Thank you to Studio SW Architects and Jaynes Corporation for your impeccable professionalism and true teamwork. And thank you to the countless others who worked behind the scenes on this important project. Having positive places to gather allows for meaningful opportunities to share, learn, and grow, which renders great gains for generations to come. Investing in community is always a win.”
Funding for the redevelopment included over $4 million from the State of New Mexico’s capital outlay program as well as $2.36 million from Santa Fe County funds along with in-kind services from county departments.
The project demonstrates Santa Fe County’s focus on creating modern facilities that foster community engagement among seniors while also serving broader community needs.
Santa Fe County expressed appreciation for contributions from state agencies, architectural designers Laura Anderson, Parker Sprague, Kristi Greiner at Studio SW Architects; Jaynes Corporation team members; the Abedon Lopez family; and local residents who supported the construction process.
The Abedon Lopez Sr. Senior Center is expected to provide expanded programs and services for seniors while serving as a hub for community gatherings in years ahead.
