Speaker Carl Heastie and Assemblymember Donna Lupardo visited the West Family Branch YMCA in Johnson City to announce a $1.2 million grant for the renovation of the branch’s pool. The funding aims to improve facilities for swimming lessons, lap swims, aqua therapy, and group exercise classes.
“The YMCA plays such a vital role in communities, including providing swimming lessons for those who may not otherwise have access,” Speaker Heastie said. “The funding Assemblymember Lupardo and I announced today will ensure that the YMCA can continue to operate their remaining pool, offering swimming lessons – a lifelong and lifesaving skill – and other pool activities for families.”
Assemblymember Lupardo added, “I’d like to thank Speaker Heastie for visiting the YMCA’s West Branch today to announce support for their pool renovation. The YMCA does important work in the community, offering numerous fitness activities, as well as Supportive Housing at the Binghamton Branch. Renovating the West Branch pool became a priority after the Binghamton Branch pool was closed to make room for additional housing and shelter space.”
The tour of the facility by both lawmakers highlighted how the renovations will allow the West Family Branch YMCA to continue serving families in Broome County. The improvements are intended to help maintain aquatic programming after another local branch repurposed its own pool area.
