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Palm Harbor YMCA Expansion Under Way

Mark Schantz/SUNCOAST NEWS

Randy Nilsson, executive director of the Greater Palm Harbor Branch YMCA, shows how the fitness center will be greatly expanded along with the addition of exercise and classrooms.

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By Mark  Schantz | The Suncoast News

Published: February 1, 2008

PALM HARBOR, Fla. - PALM HARBOR, Fla. - Open for only four years, the Greater Palm Harbor Branch YMCA needs to expand to give members more space to exercise, workout, dance and mingle.

That's why construction began earlier this month on a $2.15 million expansion and remodeling of the YMCA facility.

While the building is going on, YMCA officials are seeking financial help with the makeover.

The YMCA has always responded to the community's needs, offering programs that members want, said Randy Nilsson, branch executive director.

It's still surprising, however, that many residents, especially newcomers to the area, do not know Palm Harbor has its own YMCA offering swimming pools and a fitness area, she said.

The local branch of the Clearwater-based YMCA of the Suncoast is off Nebraska Avenue, at 1600 16th St.

During the expansion project, a Starbucks-style lobby entrance, complete with coffee for members, will be constructed on the north side of the building.

The coffee area will be a place for members to meet and relax, build relationships and use the YMCA's Internet access capability, Nilsson said.

The remodeling will nearly double the YMCA's wellness and fitness center. Large windows that let in natural light will be installed.

Following the expansion, members will not have to wait during peak periods to use exercise and cardio-workout equipment or free weights, Nilsson said. Members will also enjoy offerings in the group exercise room that will be created, she said.

The two multipurpose rooms to be constructed will allow the branch to offer more specialty classes and programs. One of the multipurpose rooms will be able to accommodate dance and exercise classes.

The Palm Harbor branch has grown tremendously during its formative years and now boasts 2,234 member households, 52 percent of which are family memberships, Nilsson said.

No one is ever turned away from the YMCA because of an inability to pay for a membership, Nilsson said. Last year the Y gave out about $75,000 in scholarships.

The Palm Harbor branch is undertaking a capital campaign to pay for the expansion. Donations are needed from local businesses or individuals willing to help, Nilsson said.

The YMCA is providing a way for patrons to gain immortality through the purchase of a paver brick that can be embossed with the donor's name or that of a loved one. The pavers will adorn the new entrance.

The Y is also offering naming rights to rooms for those who bestow significant donations, Nilsson added.

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