Recreation & Youth Services Building Proposal

Newburyport Recreation & Youth Services offers many enrichment and learning opportunities outside of school for the city's young people, as well as health and wellness initiatives that improve the welfare of our youth. Since late 2021, the Department has been without a dedicated space, and has been using temporary solutions to try to maintain its outstanding level of services. It has been a key priority of Mayor Reardon to work with Newburyport Recreation and Youth Services, the City Council, and other partners to find a home for Newburyport Rec. The City Council took a major step forward with its purchase of 59 Low Street in January 2022 as a potential landing spot for the department. 

In May 2022, the City Council authorized funds for consultant EGA Architects to complete Schematic Design and cost estimates for Newburyport Rec at 59 Low Street. On November 1, 2022, the plan was made public and presented to the City Council. This presentation was the result of months of hard work since purchasing the building at 59 Low Street in January.

On February 13, 2023, the City Council approved funding to progress the design of the building at 59 Low Street. Design Development plans and a 3D walk-through were presented to the community on January 18, 2024. The Council reviewed the current design plans in meetings rom March through May 2024 and ultimately voted to continue on to construction documents so the City will have final plans and cost estimates.  

Public Presentations:

• Proof Plan Presentation to City Council 3/28/2022
• Schematic Design Presented to City Council 11/1/2022
• Programming Needs 1/26/2023
• 59 Low Street Site Suitability 2/2/2023
• Funding Options 2/16/2023
• Community Presentation 1/18/2024 (as shown on Port Media)
• Community Services Presentation 3/4/24
• Community Services Presentation 3/18/24