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JAMESTOWN – The plan to build a brand new YMCA facility in Jamestown is moving forward, with officials from the non-profit now seeking financial support.
This week, Tom Benson with the Jamestown YMCA gave city council members a first look at the proposed $31 million dollar building planned for the north side of Harrison Street.
“We have to be able to say to New York State, other foundations like the Wilson Foundation, other funding sources that this is an important project locally,” explained Benson. “And who here’s who has shown support.”
The YMCA has already pursued funding from other sources, and now, are asking local leaders for help to get the project underway.
“We haven’t had a chance to officially ask the city for anything yet, but we’re hopefully going to get to the point where we’re asking the city for $2 million dollars out of the Federal Recovery Funds,” stated Benson.
Without help from the city, officials say the facility could close in the next few years.
“If we’re not successful in raising the money for this facility, the existing Y will be gone within two to three years, it’s just not sustainable,” says Benson.
As part of the effort to keep the Jamestown YMCA local, Benson is working with the local Boys and Girls club, and other organizations nearby.
“The Y has entered into an agreement with the Greater Buffalo Y, it’s a management agreement with an attempt to merge,” explained Benson.
The proposed building plans feature a larger indoor track, two pools, a double basketball court, a childcare center, among other additions.
Previously the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency Board sold the three acre lot on the north side of Harrison Street between Winsor Street for $29,000 to the group.
This is a very important and critical project to Jamestown. I hope it gets more exposure, so that inheritance money could be allocated into this direction. I think the churches should also get involved, because the YMCA can help kids to stay out of trouble and away from drugs. The YMCA has always been a great place, but is in desperate need of updated facilities.