New West Essex YMCA Slated to Open in 2026

By: Mollie Shauger | Tuesday, January 7, 2025 | News

Rendering of the new West Essex YMCA lobby

LIVINGSTON, NJ – The West Essex YMCA, a branch of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, is excited to unveil plans for its brand new, state-of-the art facility in Livingston. This ambitious new project will significantly enhance health and wellness opportunities in the community, with an anticipated opening in late 2026.

 To celebrate this milestone, the Y is planning a groundbreaking ceremony early this year, with an official date to be announced soon.

The West Essex Y announced in 2021 that it had outgrown its current facility and acquired the needed space to build a brand new Y at 304 S. Livingston Ave., on roughly 6 acres of land formerly belonging to Grace Lutheran Church, and within walking distance from the current Y.

Enhanced Amenities for Community Wellness

The new Y will be approximately 54,000 square feet - more than double the size of the current facility - and include a number of exciting new amenities that promote the health and wellness of adults, children, and families. Features include: 

• 12,000-square-foot Wellness Center: A significant expansion from the current 3,500-square-foot space
• Multiple spaces for group exercise: Offering a variety of classes for all fitness levels
• Airnasium: An innovative outdoor exercise area for functional movement
• Indoor walk/running track: Providing a year-round facility for cardio exercise
• Enhanced Aquatics Center: Featuring two pools - a 6-lane, 25-yard lap pool and a warm-water pool - plus a splash pad, to provide expanded therapeutic programs, swim lessons, aquatic wellness programs, and family fun
• Three locker rooms: Men's, Women's, and Universal with private changing areas
• Child Watch area: Ensuring peace of mind for parents while they exercise
• New outdoor field: Perfect for summer camps, sports, youth enrichment programs, and more
• Community Kitchen: Opportunities for nutrition education and more
• 250 parking spaces: More than doubling the current capacity

“This new building will provide members with a more enriching experience and introduce a variety of new amenities designed to foster healthy habits among families. Our commitment is to create a space where everyone can grow and thrive in a supportive environment,” said Cheryl Tuturice, District Executive Director at West Essex Y. 

Project Funding and Support

The project is estimated to cost approximately $32M. Funding will come from a variety of sources including corporate partners, the State of New Jersey, the Federal Government, Y members and community members. To learn how you can support this project, contact Dan Elwell, Chief Development Officer, at delwell@metroymcas.org or 973-758-9622, xt. 1120.

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About the Y

Established in 1885, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges invests in its diverse communities to promote wellness, safety and quality of life for children, adults and seniors. Its six branches in East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, New Milford, Hardyston and Stillwater are committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility through an array of programs. Some 35,000 people belong to the Metro Y, which awards more than $2 million annually in direct and indirect financial assistance.