FAQs
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Why are you building a new Y?
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.
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When will the new Y be built?
Groundbreaking is scheduled for the first quarter of 2025 with an anticipated opening in the fall of 2026.
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What will the new Y have?
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 si 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)
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When will you be closing the current Y?
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.
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How much will this project cost and how will you pay for it?
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. -
How will this impact my membership? Will my rate go up?
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. -
How will you be soliciting feedback from the community?
With the assistance of consultants, we will talk with community members and use this information to determine what programs and services best suit the needs of different age groups so we can build a Y that is most relevant to the community. -
How can I get involved?
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. -
What will this new building mean for the traffic in the area?
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. -
I’m a neighbor of the Y and I’m concerned about how this project will impact me and my home.
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. -
What will this mean for staff? Will new jobs be created?
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. -
How will decisions be made about the new Y?
The project will involve input from our executive leadership team, including our Board of Managers, staff, members, and the community. We will be soliciting feedback from our stakeholders and the communities. -
How will the branch’s uniqueness be preserved?
The Y will continue to serve a defined area that represents the communities in the Y’s service area. -
Will the Y’s community involvement change?
No. The Y remains committed to strengthening the foundation of our community through programs and services that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.