Despite the heavy rain, construction on the new Hutchinson YMCA is not only on track but slightly ahead of schedule. Construction at 20th and Lorraine is now entering a new phase, one that the community will be able to celebrate together.
This Thursday evening, from 6 to 7 p.m., residents are invited to a special beam-signing event at the construction site. One of the final steel beams will be set in place soon, and before that happens, community members are welcome to leave their names on it. Unlike most building signatures that are later hidden by walls or drywall, this beam will remain exposed in the ceiling near the main entrance — a permanent reminder of the community’s role in the project.
“It’s a neat way for families, members, and even non-members to take part in history,” said David Foster, Executive Director of the Hutchinson YMCA. “This YMCA belongs to the entire community, and we wanted to create something people can see and feel proud of for years to come.”
Progress Despite Rain
Foster said crews have worked through the wet weather thanks to Simpson Construction’s planning and the use of precast walls and beams staged on-site. “Even on days when I figured there wouldn’t be any activity, they’ve found a way to keep things moving,” Foster said. With much of the parking lot infrastructure already complete, equipment and materials have been able to move in and out without significant delay.
Crews are expected to have the building fully enclosed by Thanksgiving. Temporary heating systems will then allow work to continue indoors throughout the winter, keeping the project on pace for a 2026 opening.
New Features for the Community
The new YMCA will feature a wide variety of amenities designed to meet the needs of families, seniors, and individuals. Among the highlights:
• A one-seventh-mile indoor walking and jogging track with exterior windows and interior views of YMCA activity areas.
• Three stand-alone fitness studios, including a cycle studio and a mind-body studio for yoga and wellness classes.
• A dedicated gymnastics center, freeing up space previously shared with other programs.
• A space-themed climbing structure in the family center, developed in partnership with the Cosmosphere — a feature unique to Hutchinson.
Foster noted that the YMCA’s fall programming remains active at the current facility, with more than 500 youth participating in soccer and tackle football leagues this season, alongside swim lessons and gymnastics programs. Registration for fall basketball is also underway.
Membership Options and Corporate Wellness
Memberships at the YMCA remain affordable, with options for families, individuals, and seniors. Standard adult memberships are $59.90 per month, while seniors receive a discounted rate. Corporate wellness programs are also growing, with nearly two dozen local businesses enrolled. Companies can choose to pay all or part of the membership fees for employees, with the YMCA covering a portion as well.
“Workplace wellness programs help with both physical and mental health,” Foster said. “We’re seeing more employers recognize that and partner with us.”
A Legacy of Community Leadership
The new facility is made possible by partnerships and local support, including a land donation from Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Foster also credited the YMCA’s board of directors for its foresight and willingness to join the Greater Wichita YMCA network, ensuring Hutchinson has access to expanded resources and programming.
“We’ve always had strong volunteer leadership here,” Foster said. “Joining the Greater Wichita Y was a big decision, but it’s been a win-win for everyone involved.”
A Milestone Celebration
For now, Foster says the beam signing is a chance to mark progress and give the public a hands-on connection to the project. “It’s not every day you get to sign your name on a building that’s going to serve the community for generations,” he said.
The beam-signing event is open to everyone, regardless of YMCA membership. Parking will be available off 20th Street in the south lot, with signs directing visitors to the event area.
“This facility is going to be a source of pride for Hutchinson,” Foster said. “Thursday night is just the beginning of that story.”