Construction begins on Desert Foothills YMCA
By Linda Bentley | November 19, 2008
DESERT FOOTHILLS – A survey conducted in 2001 determined the need for a multi-generational center in the community.
In 2003, a market study was conducted indicating sustainability of YMCA membership.
The feasibility study conducted in 2004 revealed strong financial support for such a project.
Last week, the project turned to reality when the Desert Foothills YMCA and Community Center began clearing and grading activities on seven acres between 60th and 56th Street for Phase I, which will eventually include a small Paradise Valley Community College campus adjacent to the north.
Phase I calls for a 30,000 square foot building that will house an aquatic center with an indoor/outdoor teaching and recreational pool plus facilities for therapy and rehabilitation.
The center will contain a wellness/fitness center, an adult multipurpose room and a space for children’s programs. There will also be an area dedicated to teens for healthy living programs, a computer lab and recreation.
The lobby/reception area will feature a rock-climbing wall and a snack bar.
Phase II of the project will include a gymnasium and outdoor running track.
The 10,000-square-foot planned community center will have meeting spaces for nonprofit groups in the Desert Foothills area.
It will contain a living room/library facility where seniors can meet to play bridge or chess, have conversations or relax.
The community center will also contain a dividable multi-purpose room able to accommodate 200 people in a banquet setting or 350 in classroom-style seating. The multi-purpose room will be adjacent to the catering/banquet kitchen and will be equipped with a sound system and projection capabilities.
Two other meeting rooms are planned for small groups.
Visit http://ymcadesert foothills.org for more information about the project.
Photo by Linda Bentley