Community Center Rebuild Cost Now $1.5M

The price tag remains steep for rebuilding the Downtown Community Center.

In an update on efforts to finish restoring the flood-damaged center, Manhattan Youth director Bob Townley said his organization, which runs the center, needs another $1.5 million. So far, he said, Manhattan Youth has received $700,000 in grants and donations.

More than 20 programs based in the lowest level of the building, including those for teens and seniors, have yet to resume, Townley said. He called the endeavor to bring the building back “a workaholic’s dream.” 

Speaking to Community Board 1’s Youth and Education Committee on Tuesday, Townley said he hopes to raise the money by fall through a combination of funds from FEMA and other government sources, donations, and long-term loans.

“I’m exhausted—my back hurts and I put on eight pounds,” he said. “We are optimistic that we are going to be able to pull this off, but it’s going to be very, very tight.”

Manhattan Youth is holding a benefit on Thursday, Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. at the center. Food will be served from such local restaurants as Bouley Restaurant, Super Linda and The Palm Tribeca. Tickets range from $250 per person to $20,000 for a 10-person table. To RSVP, call 212-766-1104, ext. 229.