The Barren County Family YMCA is set to begin construction on a new Senior Wing, thanks to an $825,000 budget comprising a substantial grant and a private donation.
The project aims to provide a dedicated space for senior programs, enhancing the community’s support for its elderly population. The funding includes a $750,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and a $75,000 donation from philanthropist Rosemary Brown, in dedication to her cousin, Paul Walker, a former local and veteran.
This new facility will add a 3,000-square-foot extension to the northeastern corner of the YMCA’s main building. The new Senior Wing is designed to alleviate the current strain on the gymnasium, where senior meal and exercise programs are presently held. By providing a dedicated area for these activities, the YMCA hopes to ensure uninterrupted service for seniors while freeing up the gymnasium for other community events.
The YMCA currently serves around 1,500 seniors, a significant portion of Glasgow’s population. According to the 2020 American Community Survey, 27% of Glasgow’s 15,014 residents are aged 60 or older, and 40.5% of households include at least one senior. The YMCA’s senior programs, which offer free meal and exercise opportunities, play a crucial role in fostering social connections and improving the quality of life for many seniors, especially those living alone.
Of the total budget, $37,500 is allocated for BRADD’s grant preparation and administration fee, while $52,500 is designated for engineering and architecture costs. This leaves $735,000 for the construction of the new wing.
An additional $29,750 is needed for the construction of a 630 ft. block wall to provide access to the electrical transformer behind the building.
Annual operating costs for the new wing are estimated at $4,500, covering electricity ($3,300) and gas ($1,200). The YMCA plans to manage these costs without hiring additional staff, as current employees will oversee the programs.
The completion is still sometime away, but all parties are meeting this project with enthusiasm, as Bailey explains that the groundbreaking is estimated to take place in Spring of 2025.
The facility also aims to generate extra revenue by renting out the space after 1:00 pm for events, potentially bringing in $10,000 per year.
The Barren County Family YMCA is calling on the community to support this vital project, which promises to significantly benefit the area’s senior residents.
As the Barren County Family YMCA breaks ground on this exciting project, it’s clear that the future is bright for local seniors. With this new wing, Glasgow’s older adults will have a top-notch space to stay active, connected, and engaged.
