Update on New Bedford’s Cape Verdean Cultural Center Project

A cultural center and meeting place for New Bedford's Cape Verdean community has been in the works for many, many years. Now, thanks to some hard work and fundraising efforts by the Cape Verdean Association in New Bedford, the Cape Verdean Cultural Center will soon become a reality.

Association President Darlene Spencer and Board Member Bernadette Santos visited Townsquare Sunday to give an update on the project.

"We're hoping to have the building completed in 2026," Spencer said. "Right now, its a $3.5 million dollar project."

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The project began in 1990 when a group of local residents acquired the former Strand Theatre building on Acushnet Avenue with an eye toward creating a cultural center. Volunteers soon began working to rebuild the roof and clean the interior, which was badly damaged by fire. The Cape Verdean Association in New Bedford was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1995.

Fundraising is never easy, especially when trying to renovate a building that's more than 100 years old. The association received a boost in 2017 when it joined forces with the Waterfront Historic Area League (WHALE) to preserve the historic Strand building. The project has also received ARPA funding, money from the Community Preservation Act,  grants from Mass. Cultural Council, as well as private donations.

"We hope to start a capital campaign in the next six to nine months to support the building," Spencer said.

When completed, the Cultural Center will offer community-based space for cultural performances, artists and business meetings along with 21st century education and youth programming.

The CVANB is also developing "Island Park" on a lot adjacent to the Strand Theatre building. The lot was acquired in 2019, and Spencer said the park is about 80 percent complete.

The park will include seating for games and community interaction and a playscape for families. It's expected to open by September.

If you would like to donate to make the Cape Verdean Cultural Center a reality, visit the association website.

If you would like your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.