Stephens Family YMCA announces plans for major expansion

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - The Stephens Family YMCA in Champaign is announcing it has started the planning phase for a 50,000 square-foot expansion.

Carle Health will donate land directly south of the current YMCA building that will allow for the expansion and increase access to therapy, rehabilitation and wellness programs.

Plans are still being developed. The YMCA is moving into the phase of securing bids and funding sources. No final design or construction timeline has been set.

The expansion plans currently include 30,000 square feet featuring additional youth and teen areas, expanded wellness and fitness facilities, classrooms and community connection spaces, enhanced preschool and youth program spaces, dedicated Larkin's Place programming space, outdoor turf areas for child watch, youth sports, and family activities.

As part of the initiative, the Stephens Family YMCA and Carle Health are working together to bring expanded wellness and rehabilitation services to the community. Carle Health would operate therapy, rehabilitation, and wellness programs within the new building, occupying about 20,000 square feet.

The YMCA will rely on a combination of philanthropic support, grants, and funding streams.

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