Fort Collins Senior Center to open to all ages Jan. 1

The Fort Collins Senior Center is to open to community members of all ages on Jan. 1, 2027, lifting its 18-and-older restriction.

Existing older adult programming at the facility is to continue without interruption. Fort Collins Parks and Recreation said it is committed to maintaining and expanding programs and services for older adults at the Senior Center and across its system, including at the future Southeast Community Center.

Recreation pass options are available to accommodate community members of all ages. Residents can learn about them at FortCollins.gov/Recreation or at any City recreation facility.

The change is intended to make the facility reflect the west side's residents of all ages and expand recreational opportunities for the community, Parks and Recreation Director LeAnn Williams said. "The west side of Fort Collins is home to residents of all ages, and we want this facility to reflect that," Williams said.

The change is part of the city's strategic plan, which calls for inclusive arts, cultural and recreational programming reflecting community interests and needs. The plan lists several ways to expand recreation access: expanded Adaptive Recreation Opportunities, a reduced fee program, opening and operating a new community recreation center (Southeast Community Center), and renaming the Senior Center and removing its age restriction.

Parks and Recreation will engage the Fort Collins community in 2028 in a naming process intended to give the facility an identity reflecting its expanded, inclusive purpose.