The City of Phoenix is moving forward with plans for a dedicated senior center in Laveen, a step that could give older adults in this fast-growing corner of southwest Phoenix a place of their own close to home. For years, Laveen seniors have often had to travel to other parts of the city for senior programming, meals and support services. The new center is designed to help close that gap.
Where the Center Will Be
The planned facility will sit in Aguila Park, near 35th Avenue and Baseline Road. Many longtime residents still know the park by its former name, Cesar Chavez Park. The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board approved the new name in August 2026 after a community survey, and the park’s existing community center is now called the Aguila Community Center, located at 7858 S. 35th Ave.
The senior center itself is planned at about 12,000 square feet. That is large enough to host classes, social events, meals and visiting service providers under one roof.
What Might Be Inside
The city has not finalized the design yet. A feasibility assessment comes first, and it will help decide what the building includes. Features being considered include:
Multipurpose rooms for classes, clubs, presentations and community gatherings
Commercial kitchens, which could support congregate meal programs and cooking classes
A fitness center geared toward staying active and independent
No construction timeline or opening date has been announced. We will update this article as the city shares more details.
Why Laveen Seniors Pushed for This
Interest from local seniors has been strong. This past summer, Phoenix Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington sponsored a series of senior classes in Laveen, and she said turnout and support were overwhelming. She has said she is eager to see what programming the new center will offer and hopes Laveen seniors stay just as engaged.
That kind of turnout matters. When older adults show up for programs, it sends a clear message to city leaders that the demand is real.
Why Senior Centers Matter
A senior center is more than a place to play cards or take an exercise class, though those things matter too. According to Ismael Cantu of the Area Agency on Aging, senior centers give older adults a place to connect with each other and with important resources. Cantu pointed out that many seniors gradually become more isolated as getting around gets harder, whether because they no longer travel easily or avoid driving after dark. He said a center in Laveen would help fill that gap.
Isolation is one of the biggest quiet risks of aging. It is linked to poorer physical and mental health, and it often makes it harder for seniors to learn about help they qualify for. A nearby senior center can be the front door to meal programs, benefits counseling, health screenings, transportation help and caregiver support.
How to Stay Involved
If you live in Laveen or care for an older adult there, a few simple steps can help:
Watch for public input opportunities from the City of Phoenix as the feasibility assessment moves forward. Community feedback can shape what programs and spaces the center offers.
Reach out to your Phoenix City Council office to share what services you would like to see.
Check the Aguila Community Center for current classes and activities while the senior center is in planning.
Contact the Area Agency on Aging, Region One, for help with services available right now in Maricopa County.
Finding Senior Resources Near Laveen Today
You do not have to wait for the new center to open to find support. The SeniorSupportAZ directory lists senior centers, meal programs, transportation options, in-home care providers, assisted living communities and other resources across Maricopa County and the rest of Arizona. Browse our listings to find help close to home for yourself or a loved one.
Sources: ABC15 Arizona, KTAR News, KJZZ