Auburn YMCA Expansion Approved: New Community Hub Coming Soon

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 19:46 GMT by Auburn Citizen
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

Auburn YMCA Expansion: A New Community Hub Takes Shape

AUBURN -- After years of planning and community discussion, the Auburn Planning Board has given the green light to a proposal for a state-of-the-art YMCA facility on Van Anden Avenue. The decision, reached during a meeting Thursday night, marks a significant step forward in providing enhanced recreational, health, and community services to the residents of Auburn and surrounding areas.

The approved project envisions a sprawling, two-story building encompassing 76,000 square feet. This expansive space will house a comprehensive suite of amenities designed to cater to a diverse range of ages and interests. Key features include a modern aquatic center with a substantial pool, a fully-equipped gymnasium for sports and fitness activities, and dedicated childcare services to support working families. Beyond these core offerings, plans detail space for community rooms, fitness studios for specialized classes like yoga and spin, and potentially even resources for senior citizens.

The chosen location for the new YMCA is a sizable 23.8-acre parcel situated between Van Anden Avenue and Washington Street. This location was selected after careful consideration of accessibility, visibility, and the potential to serve a wide geographical area. The current YMCA facility on South Street, while well-loved, has long been considered inadequate to meet the growing needs of the community. Limited space and outdated infrastructure have hampered the organization's ability to expand programs and services.

The Planning Board's decision wasn't made without addressing community concerns. During a robust public hearing, several residents voiced anxieties regarding the project's potential impact on local traffic patterns and parking availability. Mark Stevens, a local resident, articulated a common sentiment, stating, "Traffic is already a nightmare. This is just going to make it worse." This feedback prompted board members to engage in a detailed discussion about mitigation strategies.

To address these concerns, the Planning Board stipulated several conditions for approval. Most notably, the YMCA will be required to conduct a comprehensive traffic study to assess the project's impact on surrounding roadways. The study's findings will inform potential adjustments to traffic flow and signal timing. Furthermore, modifications to the parking plan were requested to ensure adequate space for both YMCA patrons and local residents, potentially incorporating strategies like dedicated drop-off zones and improved pedestrian access.

"We take the concerns of the community very seriously," stated Planning Board Chair Susan Miller. "We believe this project will be a tremendous benefit to Auburn, but it's crucial that we address any potential negative impacts proactively."

Michelle St. Clair, CEO of the Auburn YMCA, expressed her enthusiasm following the approval. "This new YMCA will be a great asset to the community," she said. "It will allow us to expand our programming, reach more people, and provide a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. We are committed to working with the city and residents to ensure a smooth transition and address any remaining concerns."

The approval from the Planning Board represents a major milestone, but the project isn't yet finalized. The YMCA must now secure site plan approval from the city's building department, a process that typically involves a thorough review of architectural designs, engineering plans, and compliance with local building codes. Once site plan approval is granted, the YMCA can begin the process of securing building permits and initiating construction. It's estimated that construction could take between 12-18 months, potentially opening the doors to the new facility in late 2027 or early 2028.

Beyond the immediate benefits of expanded recreational opportunities, the new YMCA is anticipated to have a positive economic impact on the Auburn area. The construction phase will create temporary jobs, and the operation of the facility will lead to ongoing employment opportunities. Furthermore, a vibrant community center can attract new residents and businesses, contributing to the overall economic vitality of the city. The YMCA is also exploring partnerships with local schools and organizations to offer programs that address critical community needs, such as youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

This project signifies more than just a new building; it represents an investment in the future of Auburn and a commitment to building a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.