FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 10/20/2025
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
508-782-8629
City of Framingham Releases Community Center Survey Results
FRAMINGHAM – Results from a community survey show support for a city-wide Framingham community center with programming on nights and weekends.
The survey, conducted between April 1 and September 1, 2025, received nearly 900 responses from residents representing a broad cross-section of the community.
Results were presented at the Mayoral Community Center Advisory Committee’s October 15 meeting and will serve as a roadmap for shaping programming, said Chair of the Committee Michael Tusino, who is the Chief Operating Officer for the City.
Nearly all respondents (98.4%) live in Framingham, with 44.3% having resided in the City for more than two decades.
The survey reached a wide range of age groups, with adults aged 36–54 making up 44% of respondents, seniors 34.9%, young adults 15.3%, and teens 5.8%. Families with children represented 44.1% of responses.
Respondents identified cultural programs, such as theater, art, and gardening, as their top interest (65.4%), followed by fitness and wellness opportunities (61.3%) and community events (58.5%). Other priorities included youth and teen programs, family-oriented activities, and volunteer opportunities.
When asked about facilities, residents most often requested fitness and dance studios (60.3%), spaces for basketball or pickleball (56.3%), and art and craft areas (51.7%).
A kitchen for cooking classes (45.8%), theater or performance space (40.9%), and community garden (38.2%) were also popular suggestions.
“The feedback clearly shows that residents want a welcoming, inclusive space to connect, learn, and be active,” said Mayor Charlie Sisitsky. “As we move forward, this input will ensure that our Community Center reflects Framingham’s diverse needs and aspirations.”
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer Jesse Edwards added, “This survey data reflects genuine community voices. Residents truly value this project and recognize the tremendous potential it holds for our city.”
More than a quarter (28.3%) said they would use the center weekly, while 40.9% said their participation would depend on available programming.
Barriers to participation included scheduling conflicts (53.9%), lack of programming for certain age groups (48.7%), parking availability (41.6%), and affordability (38.7%). Residents suggested support services such as transportation (19%), babysitting (19.8%), and multilingual information (11.7%) to increase accessibility.
Architectural and Construction Updates
At the October 15 meeting, architect Tom Scarlata of Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype, Inc. presented an updated project overview and slideshow tour of the building. Scarlata noted the former school is structurally sound and that all rooms have been remediated to a core shell.
Current work includes masonry repairs, roof waterproofing, and preparation for new window installation. The windows, which are being fabricated overseas, are expected to arrive by shipping container in next month, with installation anticipated by mid-November 2025.
“The building has good bones,” said Scarlata. Once the new windows are installed and weatherproofing completed, we’ll have a fully sealed structure ready for the next stage of interior improvements, including HVAC, bathrooms, and ADA-compliant access work.
The kitchen has been dismantled, and future work will include HVAC and electrical systems, along with ADA-complaint bathrooms, all necessary before occupancy.
Construction Progress and Funding
The City has contracted JJ Cardosi Inc. to complete essential exterior improvements, including:
- Securing new windows
- Repairing masonry
- Installing a new roof
These improvements are supported by $6.48 million in federal ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds, marking a major milestone in revitalizing the 100,000-square-foot building.
The proposed Framingham Community Center repurposes the former Marian High School into a multi-use facility serving residents of all ages. The vision includes arts, fitness, educational, and community gathering spaces to promote inclusivity and connection citywide.
In Fall 2023, the City used $3.35 million in ARPA funds to purchase the former Marian High School and an additional $1.7 million to demolish the former convent to create additional parking spaces.
Mayor Sisitsky envisions the future Community Center as “a vibrant hub that honors Framingham’s history while offering modern, inclusive spaces for residents of all ages.”
The Community Center Advisory Committee will continue to analyze survey data and work with City officials, the architect, and the public to guide next steps for the project.
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