Upgrades in store for the Rochester YMCA?

The Rochester Area Family YMCA is integrating with the Twin Cities chapter. The move, which had been in the works for some time now, was approved during a member meeting on Wednesday.

According to a news release, the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities will provide help with strategic long-term improvement in facility planning and developing, technology and programming.

Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities, said his organization is excited for the opportunity to collaborate with the Rochester community.

“We look forward to deepening the YMCA’s partnerships in the Rochester community and developing even more innovative programs," said Gunderson.

Over the next year, local Y members can expect new fitness equipment, additional youth enrichment classes, an improved group exercise platform, a new swim lesson curriculum, updated teen programming and access to overnight and family camps.

Mike Lavin, the current interim director of the Rochester Area Family YMCA, worked for 22 years with the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities before coming to Rochester.

What's next for the Rochester Y remains unclear. Long-term, the organization has acknowledged it will either need to replace or repair its out-of-date building. The facility is situated within Destination Medical Center's "UMR & Recreation" sub-district.

Cover photo by Med City Beat