YMCA of Bristol 2.0
The YMCA of Bristol is poised for a transformation, one that will position us to serve the health and wellness needs of our community for the next half-century. This effort will extensively revamp our current facility, featuring our largest renovation in more than 50 years. But first, a look at the last three years of progress that got us here!
Renovation Project History
In 2018, the YMCA of Bristol began a major transformation. Under the leadership of CEO Rick Matthews and the executive team, no weight, machine, or lightbulb was left untouched. Every department and staff member has been impacted in some way—big or small—which has been great news for our members. Even better news: we’re not done. The biggest renovation in the history of our Y will be completed by the end of this year.
Here’s a recap of the numerous updates, changes, and improvements made so far:
Childcare
- New Teen Center and Arcade for ages 12–17
- New Stay and Play area with individual restroom for ages 5 and under
- New 71-passenger bus and 26-passenger bus for safe childcare transportation
- Opened a new 5-acre summer camp facility—Camp Adventure
Wellness Updates
- All new Nautilus machines
- More than 60 new pieces of cardio equipment
- New sanitizable rubber flooring in the cardio theatre
- Addition of a new Mind + Body studio
- New Cycle Studio
- New BoxMaster studio and equipment
- All new group exercise equipment for all studios
- New fleet of Keiser cycle bikes for spinning
Membership & Communication
- New app for Apple and Android users
- New website overhaul
- Implementation of a monthly newsletter to members
- Creation of a new lobby area and social space
- Addition of free coffee and tea station
- New water fountains with bottle fillers and filtered water
Aquatic Updates
- Infant and toddler survival swim program—Float for Life
- Resurfaced therapy pool
- All new furniture, supplies, and lane ropes in pools
- New CPR and first aid supplies for in-house training
Facility and Maintenance Updates
- New Global Plasma Air Purification System to reduce germs 24/7
- New automatic handicapped doors
- New LED marquee
- Complete renovation of membership and corporate offices
- Parking lots sealed and striped
- Resurfaced front patio area
- New air conditioning units
- New LED lighting in the parking lot
- New hot and cold water system
- New pool filtering system
- Repainted entire second floor
- Added safety ladders throughout the facility for roof access
Upcoming Renovation Project Overview
- The YMCA of Bristol is focused on member safety, satisfaction, and creating greater community connections within our Y. This will be accomplished through our new 8,500 sq. ft. renovation layout coming in 2021. The first level of the YMCA will be transformed to house 27 new private showers and locker/changing rooms, special needs changing rooms, additional fitness space, and a cross-generational social area. Construction began in July 2021 and is expected to conclude by the end of the year.
What Can you Expect?
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Members are encouraged to stay informed of all construction-related developments to ensure their visit to the Y remains smooth while we stay fully open during renovation:
- Email Updates: Progress and important updates are shared in our member newsletters. Don’t receive them? Stop by Membership to add or update your email address.
- YMCA App: Be the first to know about potential disruptions by downloading the YMCA of Bristol App for Apple or Android.
- Website: Track renovation progress and learn how we’re reinvesting in your facility by visiting this page often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the YMCA of Bristol renovating?
A: The YMCA of Bristol originally opened its doors in 1884 as a true community effort. Today, it remains a vibrant center for all. A significant interior renovation is necessary to ensure we continue to provide the best possible experience for our members.
Q: What does the renovation project include?
The first level will house 27 new private showers and locker/changing rooms, special needs changing rooms, additional fitness space, and a cross-generational social area.
- Demolition of outdated locker rooms to create new, improved locker rooms for all men, women, families, and members with special needs.
- Construction of a universal/family locker room with 27 private changing rooms featuring individual showers, toilets, and changing areas.
- New individual dry sauna located off the pool deck within view of aquatics staff for safety.
- Expansion of the Wellness Center into a bright, open space for all to enjoy.
- Substantial expansion of social spaces, with more room for fellowship, seating, and relaxation.
Q: What is the timeline for construction and completion?
A: Work began in July 2021 and is expected to conclude by the end of the year.
Q: What is the cost of the renovation project?
A: The total cost of this reinvestment project is $800,000.
Q: Will this project affect membership or fees?
A: No. The project will be funded exclusively through community support and donations to the Imagine the Possibilities capital campaign. Visit bristolymcanet.stage.site to learn more or contribute.
Q: Will the Y be open during renovation?
A: Yes. Some spaces may be temporarily unavailable, but the YMCA of Bristol will remain fully open for the duration of the project.
Q: Will parking be affected?
A: A portion of the parking lot may be reserved for construction vehicles. We will keep members informed and work to minimize inconvenience.
Q: Will the expanded Wellness Center include new equipment?
A: Yes. The expanded space will include new equipment in addition to current equipment. More details will be shared soon.
Q: Where can I receive updates?
- Email Updates: Renovation updates shared via newsletters.
- YMCA App: Stay informed with the YMCA of Bristol App.
- Website: Visit this page regularly for renovation news.
Q: How can I help?
Make a Gift: All members are invited to contribute to the YMCA of Bristol capital reinvestment campaign. To learn more about contributing to this exciting revitalization project, please contact us today!