COSMOSPHERE / HUTCHINSON YMCA
The Greater Wichita YMCA and Cosmosphere are proud to announce the launch of a joint project to bring a space-themed climbing structure to the new Hutchinson YMCA location, which is currently under construction and scheduled to open in 2026. The collaboration reflects both organizations' commitment to youth development, family engagement and community wellness.
The fully customized climbing structure, which is being built and designed by Boss Display, a national leader in interactive exhibits, will feature engaging and themed elements inspired by the Cosmosphere's mission of inspiring the future through space exploration. It will be located prominently in the Hutchinson Y’s Family Center, offering kids of all ages a playful mix of physical activity and STEM exploration.
“We’re very enthusiastic to collaborate with the Cosmosphere to provide Hutchinson-area families with a unique feature that will most certainly deliver the ‘wow factor,’ ” said Ronn McMahon, President and CEO of the Greater Wichita YMCA. “The Cosmosphere is an iconic Hutchinson organization whose partnership represents a shared commitment to strengthening community pride and making the Hutchinson YMCA a welcoming and inspiring place for all.”
The Cosmosphere plans to kick off its fundraising campaign in the coming weeks to give community members, donors and local businesses the chance to be part of this initiative. Donations collected by the Cosmosphere will help bring the climbing structure to life and ensure that families across Reno County can benefit from this imaginative, educational space.
"The new YMCA that is being built in Hutchinson is a fantastic project that has the potential to impact our community in a variety of ways," said Jim Remar, President and CEO of the Cosmosphere. "To be a small part of this project is quite an honor for the Cosmosphere. For me personally, it is exciting to bring two community partners together to create a new opportunity for Hutchinson. I am very proud of the partnership that we have developed with the YMCA."
Construction of the 75,000-square-foot Hutchinson YMCA began in January at the intersection of 20th Street and Lorraine on land that was donated to the Y through a partnership with Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. It will include a first-class destination aquatics center, indoor track, gymnasium, expanded gymnastics center, fitness center with studios, community room, additional places for families to connect and programs that provide safe spaces for youth.