West Family Y Pool renovation thanks to a NY State Grant

On September 3rd as part of his annual statewide tour, New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo visited the West Family Branch in Johnson City to announce a $1.2 million grant earmarked for a comprehensive renovation of the facility's pool, locker rooms, and shower areas.

Planned Renovations Will Include:

· Replacement of the pool's mechanical systems and filtration system

· Improvements to enhance the overall appearance of the area

· Renovation of locker rooms and showers

Heastie emphasized that this investment demonstrates the state's commitment to swimming safety, stating, “The YMCA plays such a vital role in communities, including providing swimming lessons for those who may not otherwise have access,” Heastie said in the announcement. “The funding Assembly member Lupardo and I announced today will ensure that the YMCA can continue to operate their remaining pool, offering swimming lessons – a lifelong and lifesaving skill – and other pool activities for families.”

The pool serves thousands of individuals each year, providing swimming lessons, open and lap exercise swim times, aqua therapy, along with various aqua exercise classes. YMCA of Broome County Executive Director Gareth Sansom noted a rise in pool usage, especially since the closure of the downtown Binghamton facility's pool, which is in the process of being repurposed to provide additional housing for the unhoused.

Sansom referred to the pool as the “heartbeat” of the West Family Branch, explaining, “The mechanics of the pool have been deteriorating since they were installed in 1987. While we undertook renovations in the early 2000s, they have now reached the end of their useful life. As a result, we struggle to maintain the pool's temperature, chemical balance, and air quality, which ultimately impacts our ability to deliver quality service.”

Sansom views this renovation as the first step in a comprehensive overhaul of the Johnson City facility. He is actively pursuing additional state funding and support from local foundations to enhance various aspects of the facility including the lobby, parking lot and outdoor playground.