Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano has announced that the Nepperhan Community Center, located at 342 Warburton Avenue, will undergo major renovations as part of a multi-million-dollar investment. The announcement was made on January 9, 2026, and highlights the city’s partnership with Azorim North America through a Community Benefits Agreement.
The Nepperhan Community Center, founded in 1942 in the Runyon Heights neighborhood—one of the first predominantly Black suburban neighborhoods in the country—has long served as a center for education, community gatherings, and civic engagement. The center has been at its current location since 1982.
Under the new agreement, Azorim North America, which developed Miroza Tower at 44 Hudson Street and Miroza at Ridge Hill, will fund and oversee the full revitalization of the center. The renovations will make use of the entire building, including transforming the basement into an additional community space equipped with workout equipment. Upgrades will also include modern amenities such as Wi-Fi access, office space, and a commercial kitchen.
Mayor Mike Spano stated: “The Nepperhan Community Center represents history, resilience, and opportunity. I am grateful to Azorim North America for offering a Community Benefits Agreement unlike any other, restoring a vital institution without costing taxpayers. This investment ensures the New Nepp will once again serve as a vibrant, welcoming space for families, seniors, and young people for generations to come.”
Azorim Chairman Hershey Friedman said: “Azorim is honored to partner with the City of Yonkers in the transformation of the Nepperhan Community Center, a cherished community institution. This expanded and enhanced community center project is a testament to the commitment of Mayor Spano and the members of the Yonkers City Council to make Yonkers a wonderful place to live.”
New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins commented: “For over 80 years, the Nepperhan Community Center has been a pillar of Yonkers’ West Side and a vital institution for the Black community. This renovation will deliver long-awaited improvements that are necessary to continue the center’s legacy, while enhancing its ability to serve the surrounding area for many years to come.”
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins added: “The Nepperhan Community Center represents more than just a building for the City of Yonkers — it is a place where history, culture, and community have come together, creating a safe haven for residents and families. This significant investment to redevelop the Community Center honors the generations of residents who have relied on this facility as a source of opportunity, connection, and support. I would like to thank Mayor Mike Spano and all of the partners involved for ensuring this treasured institution is restored so it can continue serving families, seniors, and young people for decades to come.”
Yonkers City Council President Lakisha Collins-Bellamy said: “This multi-million dollar investment is more than a renovation; it’s a commitment to the people of our community. The redevelopment of the Nepperhan Community Center represents a renewed promise to provide safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces where our families, youth, and seniors can thrive for generations to come.”
Yonkers City Council Majority Whip Deana Norman noted: “I am elated that the Nepperhan Community Center is receiving a complete renovation. This project has been a long time coming and represents a tremendous win for our community… The Nepperhan Community Center has meant—and continues to mean—so much to our community; this renovation ensures it will remain a vital and accessible space for generations to come.”
Former Yonkers City Councilmember Symra Brandon remarked: “People have been waiting for this for a long time. The Nepperhan Community Center has always been a hub of the community… Thank you to Mayor Spano and our community partners for keeping Mary Gaines’ dream alive.”
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026 with completion projected within 12-18 months. All existing city programs currently held at this site will be temporarily relocated during renovations.
Yonkers remains one of New York State’s largest cities with more than 200,000 residents along the Hudson River. It offers municipal services through several departments such as public works while maintaining its historical legacy as an American World War II Heritage City (official website). The city supports diverse neighborhoods—including those around cultural hubs like Nepperhan—and promotes resident well-being across Westchester County (official website).
