Rochester, NY
Schottland YMCA: A Groundbreaking Facility Shaping Rochester’s Future
Go New And Go Big
The Schottland YMCA in Rochester, New York, stands as a monumental achievement, ranking as the second-largest Y in the United States. This $45 million facility, opened in 2019, was made possible through the generosity of philanthropy—including a transformative gift from the Schottland family—and the strategic sale of the branch's former location for $5.9 million.
At the core of this ambitious project was the Gro team's REDAO (Real Estate Development Assessment Optimization) process. This multi-year endeavor required tough decisions about existing buildings and locations, but the REDAO study provided data-driven insights, allowing leadership to make informed choices that would benefit not only the YMCA, but also its members and the wider community.
What truly sets the Schottland Y apart is its expansive, holistic approach to community service. Its vision is clear: to meet the human-service needs of children, youth, adults, and seniors from all walks of life. A cornerstone of this effort is its groundbreaking partnership with the University of Rochester Medicine, which includes a state-of-the-art, 15,000-square-foot outpatient hospital. This facility, staffed by six physicians, offers wellness programs, health lectures, and collaborative initiatives designed to elevate the well-being of the entire community.
And that’s just the beginning. The Schottland Y boasts a range of exceptional amenities: a daycare center and playground, a senior center, three full-size gymnasiums, indoor running and walking tracks, a cutting-edge golf simulator, and an 18,000-square-foot aquatic center with multiple features. The facility also includes a vibrant community wing, complete with an art studio and teaching kitchen, fostering creativity and connection.
Spanning 140,000 square feet and situated on 20 acres of land, the Schottland YMCA is more than a fitness center—it’s a beacon of community health, wellness, and opportunity for generations to come.
