Construction Expected Soon on Future Home of City YMCA

Construction is set to begin on the city YMCA's new home, which will be located at 265 Harrisburg Avenue, between Clipper Magazine Stadium and the Lancaster Arts Hotel.

The city YMCA has occupied its current building, at 572 North Queen, since 1967.

Executive Director Jeff Kenderdine explained that the new, 42,000 square-foot facility will feature more usable space than is currently available and will feature "physical and aerobic fitness rooms, a full gymnasium, natatorium, indoor walking/running track, child watch area, youth & community rooms, and administrative offices."

Kenderdine also said that the new building will be environmentally friendly and energy efficient, resulting in "dramatic operational savings."

According to Kenderdine, construction is expected to begin on the new facility in late spring, and continue for "roughly a year," which puts the projected opening in early 2009.

The YMCA purchased the facility from an insurance subsidiary of the Irex Corporation. The total cost of construction, including the purchase of the building, is $13 million, Kenderdine revealed.

For over 150 years, the YMCA has sought to provide family-friendly wellness and educational programs to the youth of Lancaster City and County.