Mayor Evans welcomes residents and families back to the newly renovated Thomas P. Ryan R-Center following months of improvements

Rochester, New York – Mayor Malik D. Evans joined city leaders, staff, and neighborhood residents this week to welcome the community back inside the newly renovated Thomas P. Ryan R-Center, marking the reopening of a familiar gathering place with a refreshed look and expanded opportunities for recreation and connection.

Standing alongside City of Rochester Department of Recreation and Human Services Commissioner Dr. Shirley Green, Mayor Evans greeted visitors at the center, located at 530 Webster Ave., as doors officially reopened following months of construction. The renovation project, which began in June 2025, was designed to modernize the building while preserving its role as a safe and welcoming hub for residents of all ages.

“Welcome back to Ryan R-Center, Rochester!” said Mayor Evans. “This renovation reflects our commitment to strong neighborhoods and reinvigorates a safe, welcoming space where residents of all ages can connect, stay active, and build community.”

The updated facility now offers a redesigned lobby that immediately sets a new tone for visitors. The entrance features new doors, an upgraded reception desk, refreshed wall finishes, and new flooring, all aimed at improving both function and first impressions. Beyond the lobby, several interior spaces were reworked to better serve changing community needs.

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The community room, teen lounge, and computer lab have been reimagined with modular partitions that allow staff to easily adjust layouts for programs, meetings, or events. New furniture, storage solutions, and flooring add comfort and flexibility, making the spaces more inviting for both youth and adults.

One of the most noticeable upgrades is the expanded game room, which now includes new gaming consoles, a pool table, arcade-style games, and a building blocks station. The additions are designed to appeal to a wide range of ages and interests, offering both structured and casual activities.

The renovation also placed a strong focus on inclusion and well-being. A new sensory-friendly space was created to support social-emotional health, providing a calmer environment for visitors who may need a quieter setting. The gymnasium received updates as well, including a new scoreboard and ceiling fans, improving both usability and comfort during sports and fitness programs.

Behind the scenes, the building’s mechanical systems were upgraded, with improvements to HVAC, electrical, and fire protection systems to ensure safety and long-term reliability.

To further enhance the exterior appearance, a large photo mural is planned for installation across the R-Center’s windows once warmer weather arrives. City officials say the mural will celebrate community life and make the building more visually engaging from the street.

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The Ryan R-Center serves about 21,000 visitors each year, based on 2024 figures, and shares a campus with the Sully Branch Library and Dr. Iris J. Banister School No. 33. Several students from School No. 33 attended the ceremonial reopening, joining city leaders in celebrating the updated space.

Residents will have an early opportunity to explore the renovations this Saturday, Jan. 24, when the center opens from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for tours and meet-and-greet activities with R-Center staff.

Expanded programming will roll out in phases over the coming weeks. Beginning Monday, Jan. 26, the center will be open on weekdays from 2 to 9 p.m. Starting Saturday, Feb. 21, hours will expand to include Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During February Break Week, from Tuesday, Feb. 17, through Friday, Feb. 20, the center will offer special activities from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., though all R-Centers will be closed Monday, Feb. 16, for Presidents’ Day.

“Ryan R-Center is reopening its doors in time to provide tons of fun over the February school break that’s just around the corner,” said Commissioner Dr. Green. “It is one of three R-Centers that will be offering extended hours during the break so students can stay active and engaged with exciting activities all week long.”

The city is also inviting residents to mark their calendars for a Grand Reopening Celebration on Saturday, Feb. 21. Additional information about hours, programs, and activities at all City R-Centers is available at www.CityofRochester.gov/Recreation.