OSF, YMCA, Easterseals collaborating to construct new YMCA facility

Posted on April 3, 2018

By Patrick Baron

BLOOMINGTON – OSF HealthCare is working with Easterseals Central Illinois and the Bloomington-Normal YMCA to construct a new facility for the Y on Bloomington’s east side.

OSF Regional CEO Chad Boore made the announcement at a news conference this morning.

“I’m really pleased to announce our gift of land here on our campus to allow the Y and Easterseals to recognize this vision for building a community impact center,” said Boore.

The new facility, to be located off of Saint Joseph Drive, plans to include a new aquatic center for various swim teams and programs offered by the Y. There had been a previous attempt to build a new community center near Ireland Grove Road several years ago, but it proved to be too much of a financial strain.

Bloomington-Normal YMCA CEO B.J. Wilken noted the Y’s current location is becoming overcrowded, prompting the need for a more modern, spacious facility. He said the new location will be more central.

“Currently, our programs are growing at about 10-12 percent a year.” Wilken explained. “Our current facility can no longer handle the growth of our programs that we offer at the YMCA.”

Wilken said he expects the Y will be fundraising for the project for the next 18 to 24 months, with the hopes of opening in 2021. He estimated the total construction cost will range between $16-19 million. Keeping the facility operational each year will cost between $2-2.5 million. Wilken said he is confident the Y will be able to offset that cost, citing successful membership programs and contributions acquired by the organization.

Patrick Baron can be reached at [email protected].

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