The Schlessman Family YMCA in the University Park neighborhood is about to undergo a $7-million expansion and renovation project that will bring the site up to date, to the delight of some in the neighborhood.
Preliminary work has already begun to add to the parking lot; the project will take just over a year. The expansion will add approximately 15,000 square feet to the center, 3901 E. Yale Ave.
“It’s been a strong hub for the YMCA and University Park,” Metro Denver YMCA president and CEO Jim Hiner said. “It’s just really in need of a makeover and more square footage to accommodate our membership.”
The YMCA has served as a gathering place for the neighborhood since the 1950s, and at least one resident feels that some people have gone elsewhere recently because the center has not been adequately serving residents.
“The renovation is long overdue. It’s one of the most tired YMCAs,” said Debbie Harrington, a previous member and University Park neighbor, adding that she hopes the improvements will help bring people back.
Another current resident says she uses the center five days a week to work out and thinks even if the construction is an inconvenience, the result will be worth it.
“We have other fitness centers, but not a place — in my opinion — as welcoming as the Schlessman YMCA is,” said University Park resident and YMCA member Mary Knowles. “I don’t think we’ve tapped enough into the community. This allows more people to utilize this facility.”
New additions to the site include an expanded childhood watch area and playground, new family locker rooms and family changing centers, a zero-entry warm water pool, a cardio center, outdoor sun deck, youth center, event room lounge and renovated locker rooms and weight rooms.
Hiner said the plan is to keep the center open during the construction, but that some areas may have to be closed depending on how the schedule works out.
He said the YMCA did some capital campaign fundraising and raised some money in bond financing.
The branch was named for Gerald Schlessman in 1958 and has undergone several small renovations in its time. The Schlessman Family Foundation, a charitable organization that supports the YMCA, is funding a portion of the renovation.
“Everybody is real excited,” said Lee Schlessman, president and CEO of the Schlessman Family Foundation. “It’s something we’ve needed and it’s finally come to fruition.”
Joe Vaccarelli: 303-954-2396, jvaccarelli@denverpost.com or
