Glendale, Ariz. – The city of Glendale has received over $1.3 million in federal assistance to aid three community centers with much-needed upgrades. The funds were granted to the city, thanks to the hard work of Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema as well as Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-03).

The community centers will receive technology equipment such as monitors, televisions, computers, laptops, tablets, 3D printers and coding software. These improvements will help promote a safe place for families and the youth of Glendale to gather while also promoting social interaction, educational opportunities and job training.

“The relationships we establish as local and federal elected officials are critical to the success of serving our residents,” said Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers. “I am proud to work with our federal delegation to bring additional resources to Glendale.”

The Glendale Community Center (Ocotillo District), O’Neil (Ocotillo District) and Rose Lane (Cactus District) Recreation Centers have served the residents of Glendale since 1984 and have been a tremendous asset to the community. Unfortunately, the three locations have been closed to the public at various times due to a lack of financial resources. In 2020 (FY21), the Glendale City Council authorized funds to resume operating the centers and allocated money for structural improvements. Additionally, staff requested federal assistance to advance the project scope.

“Thanks to the funding our office secured, there are now more ways for Glendale families to connect as a community,” said Rep. Ruben Gallego. “From free summer camps and after-school programs to updated internet access and adult training, housing and nutrition programs, Glendale’s Digital Equity Initiative is an innovative way for the city to get its residents the resources they need. The city of Glendale is a local leader in connecting residents with the resources they need. Thanks to Mayor Weiers’ leadership for helping us secure these dollars for Glendale!”

Federal funding requests are often competitive and require broad support from the community. Many times, Congress will require letters of support from other community groups to ensure investments benefit a wide range of stakeholders. The city of Glendale collected over 20 letters of support from local leaders, which was key to Glendale receiving the grant.

“It was an honor to have worked with the office of Congressman Ruben Gallego to secure this important grant that helped supplement an additional $8 million during the budget process,” said Glendale Councilmember Jamie Aldama of the Ocotillo District. “Upgrades to the centers have been much needed and are such a valued resource in our community. Glendale youth will soon have a sustainable learning environment for years to come.”

The renovations are currently taking place at the Glendale Community Center as well as both the O’Neil and Rose Lane Recreation Centers. All three locations are scheduled to open in the summer of 2023.