By Mark Fowser
Gleaming workout equipment, expansive floor space, motivational messages and even pleasant outside views are now available for members and future members of the Brandywine YMCA on Mount Lebanon Road.
An entire second floor was added to the building over the course of 13 months. The second phase of a three-part expansion plan was completed Monday.
“It’s fabulous. It’s just a beautiful facility,” Jeff Schenk of Landenberg, Pennyslvania said as he was among the first to try out one of the new treadmills.
“It looks fantastic,” Bob Bowden of Hockessin added.
“This is the biggest of the studios, ultimately,” Brandywine Y Health and Wellness Director Dot McFadden said as she guided WDEL News among the treadmills, cycles, weights, yoga mats and other assorted workout paraphernalia.
An outdoor terrace is available for members to unwind, for staff to hold short meetings, or possibly sunrise yoga in the future.
According to Brandywine YMCA Executive Director Linda Risk, donations and sponsorships helped to raise $5-million for the branch’s expansion plans. Phase three will include a teen center, a child care room, a youth fitness center and other studio space.
More space to work out, and new classrooms to serve a variety of purposes will be the result of a construction project at the Brandywine YMCA, which is looking to meet the community’s needs for the next 50 years.
Diabetes prevention, healthy weight management for children and the LiveStrong cancer program will also be available at the Y’s new facilities.
“We’re going to have all of this extra space to be able to provide those special, unique programs,” Risk said.
If membership costs are a concern, Risk said the Brandywine branch provides more than $600,000 in financial assistance.
“That’s given through memberships, summer camp, swim lessons, youth sports… we’re really just a great resources to the community and making sure that everyone can come here and enjoy what we have to offer,” Risk said.