Ribbon Cutting Reveals Completed $50 Million Houston Jewish Community Center Renovation Project

HOUSTON. J has been a mainstay of the Meyerland community since the 1930s, but the Evelyn Rubinstein Jewish Community Center was nearly destroyed by Hurricane Harvey.

After millions of dollars and years of persistence, JCC representatives cut the ribbon at the new building on Sunday.

It was a $50 million renovation, but generations of people who have been part of the community have said its impact is priceless.

The new J was opened as the Jewish community and city officials once again went through a long road to reconstruction.

“I am very pleased to now come and see a place that five years ago was under water at a depth of 10 feet,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner.

The project started in 2016, but Harvey caused catastrophic damage that delayed construction.

But nothing could stop the community from completing what they set out to do.

“What has been achieved with this new facility is very historic,” said City Council member Abby Kamin.

J has always been a part of Kamin’s life.

“Growing up in Houston at JCC, we played sports where we hosted events, now we have this new space where my family can enjoy – not just our Jewish community, but the entire community,” she said.

Sharon Benhamo said she grew up with The J.

“I think I learned to swim here. I mean, these are memories,” Behamo said.

Behamo remembered Harvey’s impact on the center as well as her life.

“This is a home, so when you see your home destroyed, it’s devastating,” Behamo said.

Now the multi-storey building has everything from a gym to multifunctional rooms, indoor and outdoor spaces. It even had underground tanks installed to collect stormwater for future protection.

Marilyn Steinberg said that for the Jewish community in particular, the building is the cornerstone of their lives.

“Your legacy. Your culture,” Steinberg said.

As the center looks forward to welcoming all of Houston back to its doors, this is an opportunity to reflect on persistence and its future impact on the community.

“It’s amazing to see it finally come to life,” Benjamo said.

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