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February 1, 2010

OnSite Fitness Magazine

The Chinatown YMCA in San Francisco is undergoing a major renovation. Their historic building built in 1926, was in need of repairs, accessibility and reconfiguring to provide programming to the area's residents. The 20,000 square foot structure will gain an additional 20,000 as an addition is built on the vacant lot next door. It's going to be an amazing facility. "The build up for this renovation started about 10 years ago, " said Lara Hitchcock, Development Director. "We broke ground in November 2008 and hope to have it completed by mid-2010."

Many of the area residents have been coming to this Y for most of their lives. As kids they learned to swim and as adults, hey now bring their own kids to swim lessons. "We'll have a much bigger pool, 75 feet with five lanes, and as before a big focus will be on kids programs and lessons, though it will be a great place for lap swimming too!"

While under renovation, this YMCA membership is able to utilize the other Ys in their area and the Chinatown Y continues to reach out to the community by providing PE in local schools, after school child care and teen leadership programs.

When the "new" Chinatown Y opens its doors, Hitchcock says it will be an open and welcoming atmosphere, accessible to all.