September 2003

A November groundbreaking ceremony is set for the new Grand Rapids, Michigan Metropolitan YMCA. The 150,000 SF branch will create a state-of-the-art operation designed to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. Features include an aquatics center with lap pool, a family recreation pool with water slide and whirlpool. Gymnasium facilities include two full basketball courts, a climbing wall, 3 racquetball courts, 1 squash court, a one-seventh mile jogging track, expanded aerobic and weight rooms, a day care center, teen center, chapel, and offices for the local branch and the Grand Rapids Metropolitan YMCA.

Large expanses of glass open the four-story building to the community. Located adjacent to Grand Rapids’ major North – South freeway, gymnasium action will be visible to passing motorists. A window wall in the Aquatics center reveals two swimming pools and water slide. Designed to be U. S. Green Building Council LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified, the facility will be energy efficient and filled with natural light, fresh air and healthy materials

Named for the late David D. Hunting, a key figure in the early growth of Steelcase Inc, the new branch is adjacent to the downtown campus of Grand Valley State University. It replaces the City’s two oldest YMCA facilities (Downtown and West branches) doubling the YMCA’s capacity to serve more than 80,000 people with a diverse array of family programs.

Priced at $16.5 million the project will be complete in 2005.