The Greater Richmond YMCA held a groundbreaking ceremony kicking off a renovation project for its Northside YMCA which has remained largely the same since it was built almost 45 years ago.
The renovation totals 19,000 square feet and 2,700 square feet of space will be added to double the size of the fitness center, add a community kitchen and group exercise rooms. The building façade will be upgraded with aluminum composite panels, storefront glazing, fiber cement panels and brick. The facility will remain fully operational throughout the duration of the construction.
“This renovation is a historic moment in the history of the Northside Y. Thousands of children and families have benefitted from this Y for generations, and we are thrilled with what is to come,” said Tim Joyce, president and CEO for the YMCA of Greater Richmond.
The contract value is $3.8 million and is expected to be completed in late 2018. Worley Associates Architects is the designer of the project.
In addition to the Northside renovation, KBS is also contracted to overhaul the Petersburg YMCA and has completed other projects for the Greater Richmond YMCA including the YMCA Shady Grove Tommy J. West Aquatic Center.
The Greater Richmond YMCA is funding the projects with an ongoing $40 million fundraising campaign.
“Knowing that education is the foundation for success, I would love to tip my hat to the YMCA team for your continuing investment in our children, but also in the City of Richmond,” said Mayor Levar Stoney.
The Northside YMCA has roots dating back to 1887 when it first met in the Sunday school auditorium of Ebenezer Baptist Church. This Y changed locations and names a few times before landing in its current location on Old Brook Road in 1974. Today, this historic branch is known as the Northside Family YMCA and continues to serve the people of Richmond.
