Youngstown YM undertaking $5M 'renaissance'

YOUNGSTOWN

The Central YMCA unveiled plans for a project that leaders described as a “renaissance” of the downtown facility.

The project, slated to begin as soon as a financing deal closes in a few days, is a $5 million renovation of the facility at 17 N. Champion St. that’s served Youngstown YMCA patrons for 100 years.

YMCA representatives said it’s the first major renovation project at the site in nearly 50 years.

“We want this renaissance of our building to propel us into the next generation of service,” said Timothy Hilk, CEO of the Youngstown YMCA, at a Wednesday news conference.

The three-floor renovation will replace part of the building’s exterior with large, westward-facing windows. Fitness areas will move to the second floor, while the first floor will be used as a social area.

Gregg Strollo, whose firm, Strollo Architects, Inc., designed the project, said it aims to open up and brighten the space with more natural light.

It also will make the building more easily navigable.

Read more about the project in Thursday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.