MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
As construction progresses on Hutchinson’s new YMCA facility along North Lorraine, Hutchinson YMCA Executive Director David Foster says the organization is already ramping up its services and outreach—proving the Y’s impact goes well beyond new bricks and mortar.
The highly anticipated new YMCA, part of the Greater Wichita YMCA network, continues to rise visibly behind its signature blue fence. Structural steel is already in place, and Foster said crews hope to have the building enclosed between Halloween and Thanksgiving, allowing work to continue through the winter months.
“The steel was delivered earlier than expected, which really helped,” Foster said. “Now people can actually see the walls going up above the fence, and that’s exciting for the community.”
In the meantime, the Hutchinson YMCA remains active in expanding its programming. This week marks Campaign Awareness Week, highlighting the Y’s annual fundraising efforts that help provide income-based financial assistance and support free community programs.
“We want everyone to know the Y is for everybody, regardless of their financial situation,” Foster said. “The new facility will be beautiful, but it doesn’t change our commitment to accessibility and service.”
Some of the free or specialized programs include:
- Willpower Hour, a strength and flexibility class for individuals with Parkinson’s or neurological conditions.
- LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, supporting cancer survivors through fitness and community.
- Saturday Night at the Y, which offers exclusive access to middle school students in a safe, supervised environment each month during the school year.
- SPLASH, a new water safety initiative that provides free swim instruction for second-grade students at qualifying schools in Reno County. The program launched this spring and served 131 children.
The Y’s new facility will also feature a unique collaboration with the Cosmosphere. A space-themed, STEM-based climbing structure will be installed in the lobby, merging physical activity with science learning. The idea, Foster said, came from a shared vision to create something distinctly “Hutchinson.”
Construction highlights include separate family and lap pools—both of which will be grounded for safety, allowing continued use during lightning. With the lap pool already plumbed and framed, excavation for the family pool is expected to begin soon.
Foster also encouraged the public to follow the Y’s progress on social media through its “Behind the Fence” video updates, which offer insight into the construction process and layout of the new facility.
A public Open House at the current facility is scheduled for Aug. 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event invites both current and prospective members to explore programs, meet staff, and learn about membership options.
“This year’s open house is in our existing building, but next year, we’re hoping it’ll be in the brand-new Y,” Foster said. “We’re looking forward to what’s ahead—and continuing to serve the community every step of the way.”