MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Construction on the new Hutchinson YMCA is progressing on schedule, with major interior work underway and membership continuing to grow ahead of the facility’s anticipated opening later this year.
David Foster, executive director of the Hutchinson YMCA, said contractors have completed much of the exterior enclosure, allowing crews to focus on interior finishes. Tile installation has begun in the aquatics center, including the main pool and lazy river, while ductwork and other infrastructure are largely in place.
The project is being designed by Schaefer Architecture of Wichita and built by Simpson Construction. Foster said materials needed to complete the facility have already been secured, minimizing the risk of supply chain delays. Weather remains the primary variable that could affect the timeline.
The new facility will feature a 5,000-square-foot dedicated gymnastics area, three group exercise studios, expanded aquatics amenities, basketball courts with pickleball capability and a 1/7-mile elevated indoor track designed for walking, jogging and running.
Foster said the dedicated spaces will alleviate crowding and scheduling conflicts that have occurred in the current building, where programs such as gymnastics and group exercise often share space. The expanded layout is expected to allow the YMCA to increase class offerings and community programming.
A community meeting room near the main entrance will be available at no cost to nonprofit organizations in Hutchinson and Reno County when not in use for YMCA business, Foster said.
Membership has continued to rise during construction. Foster said the YMCA added approximately 270 membership units during a January promotion, bringing total membership to about 5,200 — up from roughly 4,800 at the same time last year.
Despite the upgraded facility, Foster said membership rates will not increase when the new YMCA opens. Adult memberships average about $39 per month, while family memberships — covering two adults and dependents under age 24 in the household — average about $59 per month. Youth memberships are $19 per month. Income-based financial assistance will continue to be available.
“We don’t want anyone to see the new building and assume it’s not for them,” Foster said. “We want it to be accessible to everyone.”
The YMCA also participates in a nationwide reciprocity program, allowing members to use participating YMCA facilities across the country when traveling.
In addition to the new construction, the Hutchinson YMCA is marking a milestone year. The local organization traces its presence in the community to 1876 and is celebrating its 150th year of service. The national YMCA organization is marking its 175th anniversary this year.
Spring sports registration for soccer and dodgeball is open through Monday, Foster said. Memberships purchased before the opening will automatically transfer to the new facility once it begins operations.