Multigenerational center faces AC problems amid summer heat

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Seniors at Manzano Mesa Multigenerational Center say broken air conditioning has left the gym above 80 degrees during peak summer heat.

Angi Gonzales Carver said she goes to the center almost every day and now worries the heat could cancel classes for seniors, adults and kids.

The city said three HVAC roof units at the center need replacement. The city said those units are 20 years old and crews have put in one portable cooler and two fans for now.

“I have a temperature measure, and it was 88 and that was without people,” said Angi Gonzales Carver.

Carver says the center recently posted a warning sign saying staff will cancel classes and activities if the gym gets hotter than 78 degrees.

“A lot of them have to sit down and they’re they’re fanning themselves,” said Carver.

The city considers all multigenerational centers cooling centers, including Manzano Mesa. The city says it plans to add two more portable units next week while it works to restore the air conditioning.

“I mean, we, as seniors, we deserve better,” said Carver.

The City’s statement

A city spokesperson gave the following statement regarding the HVAC situation:

“The City is carrying out a planned replacement of the three HVAC roof units at Manzano Mesa Multigenerational Center, which are 20 years old.  Portable cooling units support the gym and two additional portable units will be installed next week. All other areas of the facility remain fully air-conditioned and operational.”