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New Rochelle YMCA Seeks Community Help For Pool Repairs

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – Officials at the New Rochelle YMCA have kicked off a million dollar fundraising effort to pay for roof repairs that were uncovered during a recent investigation.

The New Rochelle YMCA is seeking donations to repair the roof over the pool.

Photo Credit: New Rochelle YMCA

Damage to the ceiling and roof in the pool area were discovered earlier this year when contractors were in the process of removing the pool’s drop roof, which is no longer permitted because it masks moisture buildup.

While investigating the damage, engineers found that several of the steel beams supporting the roof structure had corroded due to this, and a complete replacement may be necessary.

According to Julie Gallanty, chief executive offcier of the New Rochelle YMCA , the $1.3 million “Be A Lifesaver” campaign could be one of the most important in the organization’s longstanding history in the city.

“This fundraiser is the most critical in the Y’s 30-year history,” she said. “Unfortunately, the reality is, if we cannot raise these funds, our pool will have to close for good, and, since the pool is a major source of funding for us, we would have to close our doors to the community entirely.”

Because it is an independent YMCA, the New Rochelle branch does not receive support from the larger, national YMCA organization. Due to this distinction, officials have been forced to reach out to the community it’s assisted for more than three decades.

Gallanty noted that she and the YMCA planned to team with local officials and politicians to help get the word out about “Be A Lifesaver,” in an effort to expedite the process of reopening the pool.

“The New Rochelle YMCA provides thousands of families with access to quality, affordable sports, health and educational programming,” New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson said. “It really is one of our city’s vital institutions, and it’s facing a big challenge.”

Officials at the YMCA are hopeful that they can quickly get to work on the project, and if everything remains on schedule, the pool should be reopened just in time for summer, the YMCA’s busiest time of year.

“We’re hoping that the community will rally behind us and help save an invaluable community organization,” Gallanty added. “Once we have completed the renovations, the New Rochelle YMCA pool will be in excellent condition and well positioned to serve the region and its swimmers for years to come.” 

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