The Clemente Soto Velez Cultural & Educational Center broke ground January 6th, 2024 on the launch of a major accessibility project, which will make the historic, six story, 100,000 square foot building fully accessible to the public through the construction of an elevator.

While construction is underway, The Clemente will continue to host its programs and events in a reduced capacity. Please sign up to our mailing list so you can stay informed.

The Clemente is a historic, City-owned, former public school built in 1897, our landmark-quality building includes two art galleries, four theaters, several rehearsal/multi-use rooms, numerous offices and artist workspaces, and an outdoor performance space, all of which are home to a constant flow of artistic events, our annual seasonal festivals, and exhibitions. The Clemente has long served as a cultural anchor to the Lower East Side / Loisaida neighborhood, as well as among the Latinx community throughout the city with its fully multidisciplinary and collaborative approach. This renovation project is a milestone in major public access for The Clemente and the diversity of communities it hosts. 

Updates Include:

• The addition of a building-wide, six story elevator with 18’ ceilings

• Wheelchair accessible bathrooms to our main theater, The Flamboyán, and second floor venues.

• A redesign of the first floor, LES Gallery, which will expand its perimeter and increase visibility from Suffolk street into the gallery with the addition of a glass wall and entryway. 

• Added wheelchair accessible corridor from Norfolk street.

• Upgraded hallway lobbies / exhibition spaces, and lighting on all 5 floors of the elevator entrance.

Impact on operations:

While construction is underway, The Clemente will continue to host its programs and events in a reduced capacity. Please sign up to our mailing list so you can stay informed! We appreciate your support as we navigate complex changes.

FAQ

When will construction begin?

We will begin construction in March 2024. 

When will construction end?

We expect the end of the construction period to be June 2025. This date is subject to change. 

What areas of The Clemente will be impacted by construction?

The rear stairwell of the building, and the LES Gallery will be closed throughout the duration of construction. Wayfinding signage will be placed throughout the building to help you navigate. Unfortunately, our parking lot and rear entrance, which also is home to our summer festivals, will be closed throughout 2024. This also means our ADA accessible entrance will be closed during 2024. 

Funding

Support for this project, in the amount of $12 million has been secured by the Department of Cultural Affairs, former Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, former Councilmember Margaret Chin, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, Councilmember Christopher Marte, and Councilmember Carlina Rivera. Additional support was made possible by the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation.