The Willow Creek Association has announced plans to construct a new L.I.F.T. Center near downtown Brookfield, aiming to provide expanded programs and resources for the city’s youth and senior citizens.
Samantha Green, Executive Director of the Willow Creek Association, described the future center as a major investment in the community’s well-being.
“This project is about hope and about building something that meets our community’s needs. We’re excited to get started and begin making a real difference,” Green said.
Green emphasized that the L.I.F.T. Center is designed to address significant gaps in local services.
“We see so many unmet needs here, especially for our young people who lack safe spaces and activities, and for our seniors who deserve more support,” she said. “Workforce development is also a key piece. We want to create opportunities for growth for all ages.”
The proposed facility will include a sports complex, a gymnasium, and space for community events, offering a variety of year-round programs for both youth and elderly residents.
Additionally, the center will function as a business incubator and workforce training site.
“We want to teach entrepreneurship to our youth and provide workforce training. The business incubator will give small business owners the resources and office space they need to succeed,” Green explained.
The Willow Creek Association has secured a five-acre site for the project on River Avenue, just outside downtown Brookfield. The estimated construction cost is $8 million.
To fund the project, the association is actively seeking support from both local residents and corporate partners.
“We’re hoping to engage the community and raise at least 20% of the funds to show that we’re committed and ready to move forward,” Green said.
If the timeline remains on track, the L.I.F.T. Center could open its doors as early as 2027.
“This concept may be new to Brookfield, but I’ve seen similar centers thrive in cities across the country,” Green said. “Just because we’re a small town in Westfield doesn’t mean we can’t offer something big to our residents. We’re looking ahead with optimism and determination.”
