YMCA of Central Ohio announced it will close the Jerry L. Garver YMCA in Canal Winchester on May 30, with plans for affordable housing at the site.
YMCA of Central Ohio to Close Canal Winchester Location After 30 Years
The YMCA of Central Ohio has announced it will permanently close its Canal Winchester location later this spring to make way for a future housing development.
The Jerry L. Garver YMCA, located at 6767 Refugee Road, will close on May 30 after serving the community for more than 30 years. YMCA officials said the decision followed an internal review that found the facility could no longer be operated sustainably due to building limitations, declining participation and ongoing operational challenges.
“We understand how meaningful this YMCA has been to members, families and staff,” said Tony Collins, CEO of the YMCA of Central Ohio. “At the same time, we must make decisions that allow us to serve our community effectively not just today, but well into the future.”
The YMCA said it has agreed to sell the property to the Columbus Metropolitan Authority. While plans are still being developed, the authority intends to use the site for affordable housing.
Staff members affected by the closure are being offered opportunities to transfer to other YMCA of Central Ohio locations, according to the organization.
Members will be asked to select one of 12 other YMCA locations in the region, including the Reynolds Community Center YMCA on Davidson Drive, about five miles away. The Canal Winchester facility, along with its Head Start and preschool programs, will remain open through May.
YMCA leaders said they are exploring alternative locations to continue day camp and preschool programs after the building closes. Additional information is being shared directly with members, staff and program participants.
The YMCA of Central Ohio serves more than 240,000 people each year and is reviewing its facilities as part of a long-term plan to expand access. The organization aims to serve more than 500,000 people by 2035 and is planning several new projects, including a $38 million YMCA facility at Columbus State Community College’s downtown campus.
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