Improvements Underway at the Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center

Progress has been moving steadily at the Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center over the past several months. Thanks to grant funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the project is primarily focused on repairing the roof and upgrading the HVAC system.
These improvements are an investment in the future of this important community space and will help ensure our active senior community stays comfortable and safe for years to come.
As a long‑serving and well‑loved facility in our community, it was important to use this time to give the building some extra care. In addition to the grant-funded work, the city matched funds to support exterior enhancements including fresh paint, new siding, window replacements, and a seismic evaluation.
The majority of roofing and HVAC work is still expected to wrap up in September, but because the project uses federal grant dollars, we are required to purchase certain materials from approved American vendors. However, the parts necessary are available only from an international source.
Since federal funds are involved, the city requires a federal waiver approval before we can purchase specific equipment, and the time required for that review is what’s causing the delay in the original schedule. That requirement bumps the overall timeline to late 2026 or early 2027.
Staff from our Public Works and Parks and Recreation Department have been working together to ensure this project goes as smooth as we can without further disruptions.
This additional time will help ensure proper approvals are in place, to help avoid unnecessary disruptions after reopening, and support a smooth transition back into the Senior Center.

We appreciate our dedicated seniors who have gracefully transitioned to the Renton Community Center. Senior programs, activities, and services will continue at the Renton Community Center throughout the year while renovations are completed. We remain committed to providing the same level of care, service, and quality experiences you've come to expect during this temporary relocation.
The Senior Center has always been more than just a building; it's the people who make it such a special place.
To provide additional information about the project, the city's Capital Project Coordinator will present an update to the Senior Advisory Board on Monday, August 3. We also invite our senior community to attend a project update and Q&A in August, where you'll have an opportunity to learn more about the renovation and ask questions.
Thank you for your patience, support, flexibility, and continued involvement. We look forward to welcoming you back to an improved Don Persson Senior Activity Center and continuing to create meaningful experiences together.
Here is where we are at currently.
What’s been recently completed:
- Grant waiver process submitted for equipment orders
Demolition of existing exterior siding
Demolition of existing HVAC
Roofing and mechanical materials delivered
Full roof tear-off and new underlayment installed
What’s in-progress:
Staging and finishing roofing
HVAC expected to reach substantial completion this fall
Behind the scenes work including electrical, demolition, and staging in preparation of installation once equipment arrives
What’s upcoming:
Window replacement
Siding
Exterior paint
Throughout the project, our priority remains the same: providing the high-quality programs, activities, and services you have come to expect.
Thank you for your contribution!
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