The YMCA of Central East Ontario is teaming up with the City of Belleville, and the provincial and federal governments, to build a new facility near Bridge and Sidney Streets.
At a virtual press event on Monday morning, it was announced that the feds are committing just over $8.9 million, the Provincial Government is chipping in about $7.5 million and the City of Belleville is donating the land for the the $22.4 million, 60,000 square recreation centre.
The YMCA would be responsible for raising the remaining $6 million or so.
The new Belleville YMCA is expected to include two pools, a 4,500 square foot gymnasium, fitness studio and locker rooms, as well as offices for Volunteer and Information Quinte and Quinte Vitality Support Services, and space for other community use and programming.
A complete timeline for construction wasn’t laid out on Monday, but YMCA officials hope to get shovels in the ground by next year, once detailed designs and plans are complete.
The rough estimate would have construction begin next September, with a two-year build time and opening in 2024.
Once open, the YMCA’s Centre for Life in Belleville is expected to welcome close to 39,000 visitors per month.
When the YMCA moves out of its east end home, the City of Belleville will take over the current Victoria Street property and redevelop it.
The city is also planning to put more outdoor recreational amenities at the site of the new YMCA building in the west end.
