The YMCA of Rock River Valley is ready to launch construction on an expansion to the SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA.
The new addition will add just over 9,000 square feet of cardio and strength training space to the facility. The Y hosted a groundbreaking ceremony today with donors, partners, volunteers and staff to officially kick off the project.
The new structure will be built just to the north of the existing wellness center, which is on the Northwest side of the building facing the river. The addition will include an extra 50 cardio pieces, a functional training system similar to what we have at the Northeast Family YMCA, and increased weight training amenities.
The YMCA has experienced a significant rise in membership, which is pushing the facility to its capacity - especially during peak hours. Nearly 15,000 households are members with about 10,000 of them using the SwedishAmerican Riverfront Y most of the time.
“We have more members than we have ever had in our history,” said Rachel Robinson, Executive Director of the SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA. “We attribute this growth to an intentional strategy to make the Y more accessible and more affordable for everyone.”
This project is a $3.1 million investment in the downtown facility and represents phase one of a $15-$20 million capital campaign. YMCA staff continue to raise funds to complete this phase one project and for future projects. The remaining funds needed will be borrowed from YMCA investments with plans to pay that loan back with interest as gifts are received.
“Those funds are set aside for critical needs and we believe that our ability to serve our growing membership is at a critical point,” said Michelle Gorham, Chief Advancement Officer. “Our primary goal is to elevate our Y, our services, and our entire community as each person seeks to grow to his or her fullest potential.”
This project would not be possible without the support of our donors and partners.
“We are blessed to have Rick and Lana Engen as part of our Y family and for their lead gift to our capital campaign,” said Brent Pentenburg, Chief Executive Officer. “Their generosity will help us meet the needs of our community and truly make an impact on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.”
Schmeling Construction and 1919 Architects are leading the project. Construction is set to start the week of September 25 and is expected to be completed early next summer. Future phases of the capital campaign will be unveiled as we receive funds. For information on how to make a donation,
click here or contact Michelle Gorham at mgorham@rockriverymca.org or 779-500-0810.