For 135 years, the Durham YMCA has worked to meet the changing needs of the community. Currently, the aging Downtown Durham Y facility does not allow for increased Y services in downtown Durham.
Changing with the Community. Changing for the Community.
The YMCA of the Triangle is launching a project that will include the rebuilding of the Downtown Durham YMCA on its current site to ensure continued services to the heart of downtown and to expand other critical services throughout the Durham community.
In late 2018, the YMCA of the Triangle released an RFP seeking development proposals to reimagine the current site of the Downtown Durham Y to ensure our mission of service to all. Multiple firms responded to the RFP. After an extensive review, East West Partners was chosen as the YMCA's redevelopment partner. The Y will remain owner of the property and will enter a long-term ground lease with East West.
General Questions
How will the redevelopment impact Downtown Durham YMCA Staff?
During construction of the new facility, we plan to relocate YMCA staff and programs to our other locations in Durham - the Lakewood YMCA, YMCA at American Tobacco and the Hope Valley Farms YMCA.
How will the redevelopment impact Durham YMCA Members?
During construction of the new facility, YMCA members will be able to work out at our other locations in Durham - the Lakewood YMCA, YMCA at American Tobacco and the Hope Valley Farms YMCA. In addition, all Durham YMCA members have access to all YMCA of the Triangle facilities located throughout the region.
What amenities will the reimagined Y include?
The new Y will enable us to meet the needs of those who live and work in Downtown Durham.
- Welcoming Entrance/ Lobby
- Two-court Gymnasium
- Indoor Track
- Aquatics Center with two pools: a cool water lap pool and a warm water family/rehab pool for family swim and aquatic fitness for seniors
- Indoor & Outdoor Fitness: 8,500 sq. ft. wellness floor with an outdoor wellness plaza, two indoor group fitness studios, one outdoor group fitness studio
- Youth & Teen Multipurpose Space
- Locker Rooms
- Expanded Member Parking
Why build a new Y rather than renovating the existing facility?
The cost of renovating the existing YMCA and adding a parking deck is not financially viable for the Y. A collaborative partnership with East West Partners to redevelop the site allows the Y to offer a state-of-the-art facility and address critical parking needs.
What is the timeline of the project?
As part of the Downtown Durham YMCA, we anticipate:
- The closing of the current Downtown Durham Y facility is not expected any earlier than 2025.
How are the City of Durham and Durham County involved in this initiative?
The City and County are longtime advocates for the YMCA providing funding for Y academic support programs. City and County officials are supportive of the project and will be integral partners in the planning and construction of the entire site where the new Downtown Durham Y will be located.
How will the redevelopment impact swimming programs?
While the anticipated closing of the Downtown Durham facility is not anticipated until later this year, our YMCA staff and YMCA of the Triangle Area Swim Team (YOTA) coaches are actively exploring partnership opportunities to secure additional pool space during the closure.
- All YMCA members are welcome to swim at any YMCA of the Triangle pools at any time.
- As any new locations for recreational or competitive swimming are confirmed, we will update the information on this page and through member emails.
Service in the Community
How will the reimagined Y continue to serve the community?
Community engagement and collaborations are the hallmarks of how the Y is and will remain responsive to the entire Durham community. Here are some of the key partners of the Downtown Durham YMCA.
- Duke Health partners with the Y on health programs, including guidance on COVID-19 protocols and a referral system to local diabetes prevention programs.
- Lincoln Community Health Center promotes and provides space for chronic disease prevention programs for the community that are staff and operated by the Y.
- Durham Public Schools provide space for Y Academic Support programs and summer day camps. In addition, DPS helps identify children for these programs.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC funds a portion of the Y's Medical Membership program. The Y enrolls participants in this program and other health initiatives like the Diabetes Prevention Program and LIVESTRONG at the YMCA for cancer survivors.
- Durham Children's Health Initiative works closely with the Y on programming for children across Durham including after school and camp programs for students identified by DCI.
- Multiple faith communities offer volunteers, financial assistance to children and teens who participate in Y programs, and space for in-person educational programs during the pandemic.
Heart of Durham Giving
How do I make a gift or pledge to the Campaign?
Gifts and pledges can be made by completing the Campaign Letter of Intent located here. Payments can be made over a period of five years by: check, credit card, automatic draft, stock/securities and other assets such as Donor Advised Funds.
Are naming opportunities available?
Yes. There are a number of spaces in the new Y available for naming starting at $50,000. In addition, campaign donors of $1,000 or more will be listed on a campaign donor display in the new facility.
Is my donation tax deductible?
The YMCA of the Triangle is a 501(c)3 organization and issues receipts with every donation for tax purposes. Our Federal Tax ID is 56-0591307. Gifts are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Whom should I contact with questions about The Heart of Durham Campaign?
Contact Bruce Ham, Chief Executive Officer, YMCA of the Triangle by email or call 919-601-7091. Learn more about the Heart of Durham Campaign here.