Bronx HEArts Community Center

The HEArts Center continues a legacy of community-driven advocacy at the Historic Lincoln Recovery Center, transforming the 22,750-sf WPA-era civic building into a vibrant community hub for Mott Haven. Led by South Bronx Unite and Alembic Community Development, the project adaptively reuses the long-vacant, National Register-listed structure to support a range of school-age and adult programming, including performance, education, advocacy, and community gathering spaces. A 2,300-sf addition complements the historic building while providing contemporary space to meet the evolving needs of its community-based tenants.

The comprehensive renovation preserves the building’s historic character while introducing modern systems and amenities, including energy-efficient windows, an all-electric HVAC system, elevator access to all floors, including the cellar, restored skylights, and a new green roof. Targeting LEED Gold certification, the project aligns with the high sustainability goals established for city-owned sites. New and restored exterior terraces across multiple floors extend the Center’s programming outdoors, creating opportunities for gathering and activity while strengthening visual connections to the adjacent Willis Playground and Alexander Alley Park.