The YMCA of Greater Michiana plans to lease space in downtown South Bend.
The YMCA will lease the third and fourth floors of the Leighton Healthplex building at 111 W. Jefferson Blvd. from the city of South Bend, starting in June. Beacon Health & Fitness South Bend now calls this space home.
The city's redevelopment commission approved the plans April 25.
The agreement stipulates that the space would be rent free through Dec. 31, 2032, in exchange for the free transfer of the 1201 Northside Blvd. property for development by the city in the future.
“Our new downtown South Bend location continues the over 140-year legacy of the Y in this region. We’re excited by the endless possibilities the space holds and proud to have partnered with the city and Beacon to make it happen,” said Andre Gammage, St. Joseph County magistrate judge and a member of the YMCA’s board of directors, in a press release. “Together, we’re ensuring that South Bend residents will continue to have access to a wide range of exceptional resources that will support them and their families, and strengthen the community.”
Beacon Health & Fitness South Bend members will have access to the facility until May 31. It is donating equipment and supplies to the YMCA. Beacon Medical Group offices and Memorial Outpatient Therapy Services will continue providing health care on the first floor of the building.
“The city will move forward with redevelopment of the former YMCA on Northside Boulevard, which will benefit both the nearby neighborhoods as well as the entire South Bend community,” said Mayor James Mueller.
The YMCA O’Brien Center at 321 E. Walter St. will remain open with a new three-year agreement under consideration by the South Bend Venues Parks & Arts.
The city and YMCA will work together on any future upgrades to the building.
“We remain committed to engaging with members and stakeholders throughout this transition process and look forward to welcoming everyone to our grand opening
celebration in the coming months,” said Mark Weber, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Michiana.
Find updates about the transition and grand opening here.
Caption: Beginning in June, the third and fourth floors of 111 W. Jefferson Blvd. will become home to the new Downtown South Bend YMCA.
