Dear Birmingham Family YMCA Members,
We’re excited to share the latest positive developments in Birmingham’s new Community and Senior Center project. This initiative, created to benefit our entire community through collaborative efforts among local partners- including the YMCA, is moving forward with renewed energy and a progressively refined vision that keeps us on track.
Project Highlights
- New Construction:
The city is planning to build a new facility, estimated between 44,000 and 49,000 square feet, with a maximum budget of $32 million. Both the YMCA and Next Senior Services will be tenants in this state-of-the-art, city-owned building.
Vision, Goals, and Objectives Update
- Commission Approval:
On February 10, the city commission approved updated vision, goals, and objectives for the center. This includes the official naming of the project as the “Birmingham Community and Senior Center.” - Strategic Decisions:
The updates reflect the decision to construct a new building rather than renovate the existing structure—ensuring our future facility meets the evolving needs of our community.
Programming and Space Requirements
- Draft Programming Review:
Jim Stock, Design Director with Neumann/Smith Architecture, presented a draft programming exercise to the City Commission on Monday, February 10. This draft outlined approximately 119 program hours per week, based on current and potential future operating hours for the YMCA and Next Senior Services. - Space Estimation:
The draft suggests that about 49,895 square feet (after necessary adjustments for design elements) will best serve the community’s needs. - Optimizing the Plan:
An independent evaluation has been commissioned to confirm these figures and to identify opportunities to streamline the design by eliminating overlapping services. The evaluation will be presented at tomorrow’s City Commission meeting on Monday, February 24.
Looking Ahead: Community Involvement & Funding
- Tax Proposal on the Horizon:
Birmingham voters will soon decide on a .6715-mill tax proposal in the August ballot. This proposal is a key step in funding the construction of the center. - Affordable Investment:
With a taxable home value of $315,250, the estimated cost to the average homeowner is approximately $212 per year. - Get Involved:
We encourage you to stay informed and participate in public forums through the City of Birmingham. Agendas for upcoming City Commission and ad hoc committee meetings can be found at bhamgov.org.
We are excited about the progress being made and remain committed to keeping you informed every step of the way. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to build a vibrant future for our community.
Warm regards,
Kelly Stubbe
Executive Director
Birmingham Family YMCA