Wilmington YMCA holding groundbreaking Saturday

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — More than two years after an accidental fire destroyed part of the YMCA in Wilmington, work will begin to renovate and expand the facility.

The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina is breaking ground on what will be the Nir Family YMCA on Market Street.

A majority of the building will remain, but there will be a new front entrance and lobby, large exercise studios, a new youth wing, a wellness center, a large child watch and kids adventure areas, as well as locker rooms for men, women, boys, girls and families.

$2.8 million in insurance money and an ongoing capital campaign is funding the estimated $9 million renovation project. Dr. Oaz Nir, son of longtime YMCA Healthy Living Director Dalia Nir, pledged $2 million.

The YMCA hopes to have zero debt by the time they open in late 2018.

“On behalf of everyone at the Y, I’d like to express my gratitude to the generous individuals, families and organizations that are committed to support the renovation of this Y facility. We have exceeded 80% of our fundraising goal, and will soon turn to our community to help us with the rest.” says Dick Jones, President & CEO.

The project is expected to take 16 months to complete. The facility will remain partially open during construction. The Y plans to partner with other community organizations to temporarily host Y programs during the renovation period.

To find the latest renovation updates, click here.