The JCC of Greater New Haven in Woodbridge celebrated its grand reopening Sunday 15 months after the building was damaged by fire.
“It was cool before this but I think it’s really, really cool now,” Galina Esposito of Wallingford, said.
Community members got a chance to check out the rebuilt facility, which includes a new fitness center and café.
Town leaders are proud of how this is bringing people together.
“Seeing everyone here today, I ran into a lot of old friends from my community, and now meeting new friends,” Beth Heller, Woodbridge First Selectman, said.
Fifteen months ago a fire tore through the lower level of the building off of Amity Road. The flames in December 2016, along with water and smoke, caused widespread destruction.
Programs were temporarily moved elsewhere as crews worked to repair the damage.
Local
“We are truly turning the page and building a dynamic and beautiful future out of the difficulties that happened to us with the fire. Anything is possible now,” Judy Alperin, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven, said.
Over the past several months, parts of the center have reopened, but Sunday’s celebration of full restoration was what so many had been waiting for.
“My heart is racing right now. I am so overjoyed to see so many people come out and celebrate this momentous day in the life of our community,” Alperin said.
Firefighters ruled the fire was accidental and believe it started in the sauna in the men’s locker room.
