We’ve outgrown our current facility and space, and renovations will not be enough to address the challenges we face. With this purchase, we’ll have the space we need to build a brand new, state-of-the-art Y and meet the health and wellness and youth programming needs of the community for many years to come. 

Groundbreaking is scheduled for the first quarter of 2025 with an anticipated opening in the fall of 2026.

This new facility will be located at 304 S. Livingston Ave., on the property of the former Grace Lutheran Church, within walking distance of the current Y.

The new Y will feature:

• 54,000-square-foot facility (the current facility is 24,000 square feet)
• 12,000-square-foot Wellness Center (the current wellness center is 3,500)
• Multiple spaces for group exercise 
• Airnasium for outdoor exercise and functional movement 
• Indoor walk/running track. 
• An enhanced Aquatics Center will feature two pools (a 6-lane 25-yard lap pool and a warm-water pool) and a splash pad to provide expanded therapeutic programs, swim lessons, aquatic wellness programs, and family recreation. 
• 3 locker rooms (men's, women's, and universal with private changing areas)
• Child Watch area
• A new outdoor field will provide space for summer camps, sports, youth enrichment programs, and more. 
• The new facility will also include a Community Kitchen for education and more.
• 250 parking spaces (more than double our current parking spaces)

We do not have any plans at this time to close the current Y before the new building is constructed. We will continue to operate and strengthen the foundation of our communities.

It will not be an inexpensive project, but we consider this a long-term investment in our community. The funds for this project will come out of our Capital Budget and we will be fundraising to support this project. We estimate the cost to be $32M.

Membership rates are reviewed annually, and adjustments are made to reflect cost of living  increases but remain affordable. We do not anticipate any immediate changes to rates for West Essex Y members. We remain dedicated to enhancing the services and programs we offer to our members. We will be transparent in our communication about any impacts to membership as the project progresses.

Absolutely. Accessibility and inclusivity are top priorities for our new facility. The Y will be fully ADA compliant, with features such as an elevator, accessible restrooms, ramps, automatic doors, designated parking spaces, and inclusive locker rooms. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where all individuals, regardless of ability, can fully participate in our programs and services.

We want this building to be relevant in the community and incorporate programs and amenities that are important to those we serve. We value the involvement of our members, donors, volunteers, and staff. To learn ways you can give input or support the project, please talk with our executive director.

We understand there will be concerns about traffic flow and our initial plans have been crafted with the surrounding neighborhoods in mind. We want to preserve the quality of life for residents as much as possible, and we will continue to work closely with Township planning officials as we develop our final plans. 

As a part of this community, the Y takes the concerns of residents seriously. If you have a concern, you can speak with our executive director or the township.

At this time, there are no immediate impacts to staff. As a Y, we are dedicated to providing greater opportunities to the communities we serve while maximizing our resources. Decisions to add additional staff positions will be determined through an ongoing review of local needs, programs and services.  

Find open positions at the New West Essex YMCA. 

Decisions will be guided by input from our executive leadership team, Board of Managers, staff, members, and the community, with ongoing stakeholder feedback. The Y will continue serving its defined community while staying committed to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

No action needed — as long as your membership stays active and in good standing, you'll automatically receive the Legacy rate when we open. Current members who maintain continuous membership are our most valued community, and we want to reward that loyalty. Just keep your membership active and your Legacy rate is secured.

If your membership lapses before we open, you'll join at the then-current rate or available promotion. Questions? Call us at 973-758-9039.