Construction Begins as YMCA Prepares for Transformation

A crane sits towering over the former TD Bank building on North Main Street, workers already going hard to repair and replace the roof as construction is underway on a project that will transform the Southington YMCA property and help prepare the center for the future.

Tony Palmieri, director of operations for the Southington YMCA, said the new construction got underway and the Spirit, Mind and Body Center – the new Women’s Center – could open as early as this July.

“It’s an exciting time,” Palmieri said. “We have hired a contractor and will be beginning construction to build the new parking lot in the next couple weeks as well. Once that is complete, we will begin renovations on both the men’s and women’s locker rooms as part of Phase I.”

The parking lot construction will be done around the Jesse Olney House on Main Street and run through the summer, officials said.

Under the long-term plan approved by the Planning and Zoning commission earlier this year, expansion will eventually include a 10,000 square foot addition for a brand new all-purpose gymnasium and expansion of 265 parking spaces.

No plans are currently in place for the Olney House, an 1800s brick building that the courts have ruled must remain in place as a historic property.

Inside the new Spirit, Mind and Body Center, the YMCA will be offering not only the women’s center, but will also expand offerings to include a yoga and pilates space and brand new massage center, Palmieri said Monday.

Are you looking forward to the new YMCA opportunities? Tell us below.

Make sure to like Southington Patch on Facebook or follow on Twitter for breaking news, daily updates and more!