About the Center
In December 2003, Bahia Street was able to buy an old building at the center of Salvador for a new Bahia Street Center. Rita Conceição, the Bahia Street Director in Brazil, selected a building on the same street as the previous Bahia Street Center. The building, which dates from the early 19th century, needed to be almost completely rebuilt. Bahia Street kept the historic front facade of the building and redesigned the interior to best fit our needs. An architect in Salvador drew up plans that included several classrooms, a library, computer room, a science laboratory, kitchen and dining area, exercise area, several bathrooms and showers, and reception and administration rooms.
The 2004 demolition and construction project was handled carefully; taking the old structure apart in portions. The buildings in this part of Salvador have no space between them and no back access. Debris from the entire building was removed in sacks out the front door, and all new building materials were delivered through the same door.
For the 2005 school year, with the combined efforts of Bahia Street staff, local construction help and other community members, we were able to open the new Bahia Street center for classes using the first two floors, which include classrooms, library, administration area, bathrooms, and kitchen.
In the spring of 2011, the Bahia Street Center was completed. The building has five floors – all fully functional. View a photo slideshow or photo album of the Bahia Street Center.
Thank you to all donors, foundations, and volunteers who have made the building completion a reality.
