The Northwest YMCA is fit to be eyed this weekend during its grand opening.
By JACKIE RIPLEY
Published May 16, 2003
TOWN 'N COUNTRY - A clean, fresh paint smell is one of the first things you notice at the new Northwest YMCA.
That, and a 30-foot-high rock climbing wall.
"It looks fabulous," said Elizabeth Diecidue of Westchase.
As a founding, "Cornerstone" member of the center, Diecidue was able to tour the Y early with daughters Olivia, 2, and Julia, 8 months.
"I'll be using the pool with the kids," she said. "But I love the nursery. I work out because of the nursery."
Most of the public will get its first glimpse of the Northwest YMCA from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. The Y is at 8950 W Waters Ave. Those who join will have access to a $4-million, 21,000-square-foot center just west of Sheldon Road. It is expected to draw from Town 'N Country, Citrus Park, Countryway and Westchase.
Construction began in October 2001 but was halted after workers unearthed corrugated metal and old tires. Work was delayed a second time as YMCA and environmental officials debated how best to dispose of the contaminated materials.
Earlier this week, with opening day finally at hand, new employees were put through the paces as workers did the last-minute assembly of exercise equipment.
The state-of-the-art workout room will open for use on Monday. The Y also will offer yoga, hip-hop and spin classes, while the kids enjoy basketball and volleyball, summer camp and after-school care.
"We'll be starting swim lessons and hope to have a youth swim team," said Keith Doster, the Y's associate executive director. "We can have birthday parties, pool parties, rock-climbing parties. The programs are endless."
Membership rates range from $69 a month for a family to $25 a month for a youth 12 and under. This month the Y will waive joining fees, which range from $125 for a family membership to $25 for youth 12 and under, Doster said.
Scholarships are available for young people unable to afford membership.
"We've set the memberships at a low enough price to get kids off the street and doing something positive," Doster said. "We're here for all people, and that's what's important."
