Bolivar YMCA begins construction of new facility

Construction began July 17, though planning for the $3.8 million Roy Blunt YMCA of Bolivar has taken 10 years, including three years of fund-raising, according to a news release from the organization.

The new facility will be located at 1700 W. Broadway, not far from the YMCA’s humble beginnings as a storefront operation at 114 W. Broadway. The facility moved to a 4,000-square-foot temporary location in February 2005 and has been offering memberships since then.

The first phase of construction for the new building calls for a gymnasium with a running track, a wellness center with strength and cardio equipment, a fitness center, a teen and family center, a kids’ zone, locker rooms and office space. The project’s second phase will add a swimming pool.

Construction is expected to be finished in November 2007, though officials predict it could be completed earlier.

An added feature of the new facility will be character-building programming, with specific programs geared toward teens and families. More youth and adult sports will be offered, as will senior citizen programs and healthy lifestyle programs.