The Bryan Glazier Family Jewish Community Center opens Thursday in Tampa. The 110,000 square foot event facility and community center is considered a major step forward in revitalizing West Tampa.
“We’re not only able to restore history in Tampa but also to be the catalyst moving forward,” Jack Ross, the executive director of Jewish Community Centers, said.
The JCC is a project nearly five years in the making at a cost of $30 million. The state Legislature and Governor Rick Scott put in more than $7 million. Hillsborough County contributed $1.3 million. Bryan Glazer, for whom the facility is named for, committed $4 million toward the project.
“It’s a community coming alive and we’re privileged again to be at the heart of this renaissance,” Ross said.
The JCC is at the site of the old armory, which has sat vacant since 2004. Much of the armory has been preserved and restored and guests will see pieces of history throughout the building reminding them of Tampa's past.
There's a side to the facility for members only. It includes a state of the art aquatics are including lap lanes and a splash pad for younger children, an indoor track, gym, and an art studio. Memberships start at $47 a month.
The other side of the new community center will be for events, special fundraisers, black tie galas, and weddings. They already have bookings into 2017.
For more information on becoming a member or holding an event at the new JCC, visit: https://www.bryanglazerfamilyjcc.com/
