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Executive Summary: Iowa City Senior Center Facilities Plan
Public Input Survey Results, December 2020
The Iowa City Senior Center (The Center) opened in 1981 in the historic post office building,
which was built in 1904 and expanded in 1931. Since that time, The Center has been committed
to creating opportunities to support wellness, social connections, community engagement, and
lifelong learning for a diverse and growing older adult population. Many consider it to be a gem.
To continue its long-term preservation and sustainability, a master plan process began in early
2020. The Iowa City architecture firm, Rohrbach Associates, was contracted to complete an
Americans with Disability Act (ADA) study and develop concept plans. This was done to
improve the stability of the interior and exterior of the building, improve usability and safety of
interior spaces, and preserve the Senior Center for many years to come. Participant input
regarding possible floor plan changes were gather via an electronic survey in November 2020.
The following is a synthesis and summary of the survey.
At the time of the survey, most respondents lived in Iowa City and were 71-80 years old. Almost
all respondents participated at The Center, attended two to three times a week, and entered the
building via the skywalk. Respondents attend mainly because of the classes/programs, as well as
the social and fitness opportunities.
Some of the top areas of importance selected were Public Art and Better Signage and
wayfinding. Areas of importance for programming were Game and card game playing spaces,
Kitchen area for cooking programs and classes, and Appointment and health services. Many
respondents agreed features for mobility and accessibility should be incorporated. More space is
needed for classroom and education use, fitness – for cardio equipment and studio, and computer
access. Top spaces needing improvements were Develop exterior space, Renew Building
Finishes, and Furniture.
Most respondents liked Alternate 3 plan the best from the consultant’s presentation. Combining
comments from all three plans, most seemed to like grouping activities by floor level. They also
liked having staff offices located near each other.
With the Ground Level, most respondents noted the importance of increasing the capacity and
number of spaces for fitness activities. Many did not want the cardio and weight rooms
combined, nor did they like the locker placement in Alternate 2.
For Level 1, respondents were positive about the current lobby being used as a lounge. Others
liked the idea of opening the wall between the existing lobby and elevator lobby to create a
Coffee Grab + Go in Alternative 1. They also liked putting it near the kitchen in Alternative 2.
Level 2 comments supported the possibility of increasing floor space by building into currently
unused, open-air space. Alternative 2 had the most positive comments. Alternative 3’s Public
Meeting Space/Pod had the most negative comments.
In Level 3, respondents generally appreciated the classroom layouts, including the art room.
Concerns were raised regarding narrowing the hallway, blocking natural light, and noise
transference into classrooms. There were many positive comments about the addition of a
reception area.
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Regarding relocating the main entrance to Washington St., respondents shared more positive
comments than negative. The outdoor area was very well accepted, especially Alternative 3.
Additionally, respondents suggested the need for shade and an enclosed area to use while waiting
for their rides.
They supported environment goals, ranking Adaptive Space Use as the top priority, followed by
Waste reduction. The most comments related to solar panels, improving windows, and having an
energy efficient HVAC.
Regarding The Center staff, the majority of respondents said it was Very important to have
access to the staff for assistance. Over half reported the staff did not need to be more visible.
They have appreciated the access to and friendliness of the staff.
These results will be presented to participants and stakeholders of The Center and to Rohrbach
Associates. Once the plan is finalized, renovation costs will be paid via $1,925,000 from the
City’s Capital Improvement Program, fundraising, and other potential revenue streams, such as
grants. During this process, some plans may be altered or removed due to unexpected expenses.
Throughout renovations, what are anticipated to take place over the next 5 years, The Center will
maintain its devotion to enhancing participants’ lives.