By Stephen Stirling
The Flushing YMCA officially opened the doors to its new $2 million women's locker room Monday, a renovation that took more than a year to complete.
The new facilities, which come on the heels of a men's locker room redesign, added a host of new amenities, including lounges and separate areas for adults and families.
Flushing YMCA Executive Director William Nelson said the reviews from members of the YMCA branch, at 138-46 Northern Blvd., so far have proven the project was worth its price tag.
“Obviously, I can't go in there and see firsthand because I'm not female, but the feedback that we're getting from the staff, from the members, they're excited and they think it's fantastic,” Nelson said.
A YMCA staff member said the newly built lounges, complete with televisions and couches, so far are the biggest winner among members.
“Most people come here after work and they just want to relax,” she said. “So they love it.”
Nelson noted that the renovation's multimillion-dollar cost can seem daunting at first, but that much of the money went toward the major infrastructure systems — such as ventilation, heating and air conditioning — that needed to be built to “both the city's and our own standards.”
Nelson also acknowledged that while the project had taken a long time to finish — it was started shortly before he became executive director in November 2007 — it was worth the wait.
“Obviously with that type of money that was involved here it was a project that could be delayed,” Nelson said.
Nelson said the non-profit had the benefit of working with the same contractor that helped them renovate the men's locker room two years ago, which helped the Y avoid many problems that arose previously.
He praised the YMCA of Greater New York for funding the project in a timely manner.
“We saw this as a project that really needed to move forward quickly,” he said. “The responsiveness to our member's needs that we can have is really one of the best things the YMCA provides. As a non-profit, we're always challenged with funds just like any non-profit, but despite that we still find a way to get what we need to done.”
Those interested in getting more information on joining the Flushing YMCA or its programs can call 718-961-6880.
The Flushing YMCA is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.
Reach reporter Stephen Stirling by e-mail at Sstirling@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 138.
