SOUTH BRUNSWICK: YMCA project gets OK

by Davy James, Staff Writer
   The South Brunswick Family YMCA’s plan for expansion cleared its first hurdle.
   On March 4 the Planning Board approved the YMCA’s application to construct an eight-lane full-size indoor pool, locker rooms, expanded lobby and a larger parking lot.
   ”The Y staff and board are excited about the expansion plans,” said Tom Libassi, executive director via e-mail. “The Y members have been patiently waiting for a full-size indoor pool to complement the existing 20’ by 40’ heated therapy pool. Membership surveys conducted in 2004 and 2007 as well as a recent feasibility study have made it clear that a full-size pool is a necessity.”
   The first phase of the expansion plan will cost approximately $4.5 million to construct. The Y was awarded $3 million from Middlesex County in 2007 toward the project. The remaining funding is to be raised by a capital campaign in 2009, with donations sought from members, the surrounding communities, businesses and corporations and foundations.
   The contract for the pool construction is expected to be awarded during the fall with construction beginning sometime in 2010. There is no timeline for the second and third phases of the expansion plan.
   Phase II of the plan includes construction of a full-size gymnasium and wellness center, which would include a room for physical therapy, medical education and healthy cooking classes. Phase III includes the installation of a leisure pool area with a water slide, sauna, Jacuzzi and a warm water area for Aquafit and arthritis classes.
   Mr. Libassi said he testified to the Planning Board about the growth the Y has experienced over the past five years and of its presence as a community resource. Since 2001, the Y has provided more than $300,000 in scholarships to 274 families and individuals for financial assistance across all of its programs, according to Mr. Libassi.
   The YMCA has a membership of more than 1,550 local families, seniors, teens, youth and adults, with more than 2,500 facility users.
   Mr. Libassi said last week that he expects the full-size pool to bring in new members as well as bring back former members.
   ”The current pool does not meet the growing demands of present day members or the community at-large,” he said.