YMCA plans put on hold
Plans for a YMCA facility in North Strabane Township were suspended “temporarily” by the organization.
“My understanding is this is a chance for them to step back … and re-evaluate their own operations,” said township manager Frank Siffrinn Wednesday. “I think everybody is disappointed, but we understand.”
Township officials have been working for years to secure an agreement with the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh to open a facility in the thriving community, which is experiencing population growth.
On June 27, the board rejected a development agreement with the YMCA in which the township would commit $2.5 million from gaming revenue received annually from The Meadows Racetrack & Casino to help finance building construction. But on July 25, supervisors moved forward with plans, approving a $2 million capital gift to the YMCA, payable over five years at $400,000 annually, and authorized Vice Chairman Rob Balogh to continue negotiations.
Balogh reported to the board Tuesday YMCA President and Chief Executive Officer Kevin Bolding said the organization was taking a step back.
“They do have a presence in the township and we will continue to establish that relationship,” Siffrinn said.
The YMCA operates a summer day camp in North Strabane Municipal Park and at one time provided services like concession stand staffing.
Construction of a new facility was estimated at $12 million to $14 million and would have likely included a swimming pool and gymnasium. The YMCA planned to raise funds for 50 percent of the cost and finance the remaining 50 percent.
The township initially planned to donate a portion of North Strabane Township Municipal Park to the YMCA, but a geotechnical study showed that wasn’t possible. Two alternate sites were being considered – one close to the park on Route 519 and another off of McDowell Lane near Canonsburg Lake.
Siffrinn said he attended a meeting with officials from Peters Township in which they expressed interest in opening a YMCA facility there, but he didn’t know the outcome of that meeting.
Bolding and Peters Township Manager Paul Lauer did not return calls for comment.