Ewing Marks Milestone in Rebuilding Senior & Community Center with Topping Out Ceremony

Township officials, regional leaders and community partners gathered Feb. 18 to celebrate a major milestone in the reconstruction of the Ewing Senior & Community Center, as the final structural beam was signed and lifted into place.

The ceremony brought together representatives from every level of government along with local organizations and residents, all reflecting on the role a community center plays as a gathering place and anchor for the town.

“This building is rising from the ashes,” Mayor Bert H. Steinmann said. “What we lost in 2022 left a real void in our community. Today marks progress, renewal and our commitment to rebuilding a place where people connect every day.”

The former center was destroyed in a five-alarm fire on Sept. 30, 2022. The new facility, now under construction at 999 Lower Ferry Road, will provide expanded and modernized space for senior programs, recreation activities and community events.

Among those offering remarks were Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, State Sen. Shirley K. Turner, Council Vice President Sarah Steward, Mercer County Executive Dan Benson, Mercer County Commissioner Chair Terrance Stokes and DIGroup Architecture President Vincent Myers. Serving as Master of Ceremonies was Aaron T. Watson, Ewing Business Administrator. Speakers consistently noted that community centers serve as vital hubs that strengthen neighborhood ties and support residents of all ages.

Additional attendees included Ewing Council members Kathy Wollert and Jennifer Keyes-Maloney, County Clerk Paula Sollami-Covello, Commissioner Lucylle Walter, Joanne Durham of the Ewing Historic Preservation Society, and representatives from Mercer ARC, Kidsbridge, Ewing Seniors and The College of New Jersey.

One of the most memorable moments occurred when Ewing firefighters signed the beam together. Shortly afterward, they were called away to respond to an emergency, underscoring the everyday service and dedication recognized throughout the ceremony.

Following remarks, the beam was lifted into position above the structure — a traditional topping out milestone marking the completion of the building’s structural frame.

The project is being constructed by Ben Harvey Construction and designed by DIGroup Architecture using skilled union labor.

Officials expect the new center, set to open in late 2026, to once again serve as a focal point for programs, gatherings and services for Ewing residents.

Pictured, members of Ewing Fire Department who attended the Feb. 18, 2026 Topping Out Ceremony for the Ewing Senior and Community Center.