After completing a renovation of the existing swim center adjacent to this site, COAR Design Group started design with the City of Poway on a new 22,587 square foot community center. The new Mickey Cafagna Community Center is a multi-use, multi-generational facility that serves as a destination for a wide variety of activities for the community. The new facility replaces three existing buildings including the senior center, community center, and operational functions for the surrounding Poway Community Park.

The $10 Million project includes a statement entry and lobby space with office space for staff, recreational activity room, a multipurpose room with adjacent event patio and movable wall to divide the space, another high-volume multipurpose room, a kitchen, multiple classrooms for various programs including a dance room. Two exterior courtyards provide ample exterior space and rental opportunities and include an iconic fireplace, seating, event lights, and landscaping.

The design process was highly collaborative with the City staff and stakeholders, including the public, to ensure the facility provided flexibility and would meet the needs of both the facility staff and the Community it serves. The building incorporates exterior covered circulation to maximize interior space, sustainable features, durable materials suitable for high public use, custom signage, and integrates with the adjacent playground and surrounding park. Adjacencies, circulation, access control, security and design aesthetics were all carefully assessed for efficiency and to maximize value to the City. Exterior design features include arched colonnades custom windows, modeled stucco finish, and exposed wood beams.

COAR Design Group provided full design and construction documents, permitting services through building and health departments, assisted in the bid process, and provided full-time on-site construction administration. The project was delivered on time and within budget celebrated with a grand opening on May 14th, 2021.