Rochester, NY

Revitalizing Rochester’s Downtown YMCA

Sometimes a YMCA can have more space than it needs. Instead of maintaining unused areas, it makes sense to explore leasing or selling the surplus—or even both.

This is happening in downtown Rochester YMCA, formerly known as the Carlson Metrocenter Y, which is currently closed. Built in 1982, the facility spans 111,000 square feet, yet the current programming requirements for the community only call for about 30,000 square feet.

A recent Real Estate & Development Advisory (REDA) study identified several promising options for the site. One scenario involves selling portions of the existing building to developers for commercial or residential use. This would leave approximately 45,000 square feet, of which the YMCA could use 30,000 square feet and lease the remaining 15,000 square feet to complementary nonprofit organizations.

Proceeds from these property sales could then fund the modernization of the YMCA facility, making it more relevant and attractive to the surrounding community. Similar redevelopment strategies have successfully attracted new members and revitalized YMCA branches in other cities.

Rochester’s downtown district has experienced significant challenges, including the departure of major corporations and the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the closure of two urban YMCA locations. Reimagining and redeveloping the downtown facility offers a pathway for the YMCA to reestablish itself as an essential community hub.

George Romell, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Rochester, remains committed to this vision, stating in the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle: “We are committed to bring together community leaders, organizations, and residents like never before—sharing ideas and finding collective solutions to address the inequities in our city.”