The Boughton Street YMCA facility will be closing on July 25th as the Regional YMCA of Western Connecticut restructures the organization. The Board of Directors has decided to direct their limited resources to key programs that best serve the community. Vice President of Advancement Maura Keenan says it's no longer feasible to maintain and operate two similar facilities so close in distance.
ESCAPE to the Arts in downtown Danbury, our two Children’s Centers, the Greenknoll branch, after-school programs, community health programs and day camps--all of which serve Danbury residents--will continue. The Greenknoll branch, a similar facility with a fitness center and aquatic center, is 6 miles from the downtown Danbury branch.
The facility was built in the 1960s. Officials say it's in need of significant structural upgrades, including to the pool, and a roof replacement.
Keenan thanked the Danbury community and City officials who have helped maintain the facility over the years. They looked to close the branch about 10 years ago, but donors rallied around the fixture in the community. She says it just wasn't possible this time around.
Keenan says the Y will continue to partner with other area agencies to meet the community’s most pressing needs.
“As we look at ways to best impact the Greater Danbury area, we are restructuring in order to put our limited resources into our many community based programs. We appreciate the loyalty of so many people to the Y over the years and look forward to continued growth, service to Danbury and community partnerships during our next phase of development.” said Marie Miszewski, President/ CEO.
"The Y is not about the buildings we occupy. We are an association of people from all walks of life who share a passion for nurturing children, improving health and well-being and supporting neighbors. Our mission has not changed. If anything, with this restructuring, we will be in a position to accomplish even more in Greater Danbury. The YMCA is committed to operating in a fiscally responsible manner and being good stewards of the funds entrusted to us to best impact our community."
