The groundbreaking had all the usual visuals: A sign promoting the new location, a large backhoe that was ready for action and a fresh mound of dirt reserved for a ceremonial shoveling.
Peter Tanella, the incoming chair of the West Essex YMCA, told the gathered crowd on a picture-perfect Monday afternoon that he saw much more than that.
“Today is more than a ground-breaking,” he said. “It marks the beginning of a new chapter, one rooted in our shared vision and values and unwavering belief in the power of community.
“Yes, we are going to break ground on a 54,000-square-foot facility that’s going to more than double the size of our current Y, but its true measure won’t be in square feet, it will be the stories of the lives transformed within its walls.”
Tanella said the impact on the community will be immense.
“This space will offer state-of-the-art wellness centers, modern aquatic facilities, early childhood education, inclusive programs and gathering spaces designed to bring people together,” he said. “It will be a place where health is nurtured, friendships are formed, and belonging is felt easily.
“At its heart, our YMCA is being built with a clear and powerful purpose — to serve everyone, regardless of age, background or ability. It will be a reflection of who we are and what we stand for: Inclusion, compassion and opportunity for all.”
The $32 million building, which received financing from Valley Bank, has been envisioned for nearly a decade — or since before the pandemic, as the leaders of the Y have long realized they have outgrown a 24,000 square-foot facility that was built in 1954.
Organizers say they are hoping for a ribbon-cutting in late 2026.
The new building, to be located at 304 South Livingston Ave. — or across the street from the current YMCA, will be impressive.
It will include a 12,000-square-foot wellness center, multiple spaces for exercise classes, an indoor walk/run track, and an enhanced aquatics center featuring two pools (a 6-lane, 25-yard lap pool and a warmup pool).
It will offer an outdoor field for summer camps and youth programs and 250 parking spots — or more than double the current lot.
CEO Rick Gorab said the new building promises to serve generations to come.
Livingston Mayor Ed Meinhardt agreed.
“The YMCA has been a part of the fabric of Livingston for many generations,” he said. “It has taught our children to swim, supported working families, offered a lifeline to seniors, and given countless individuals a place to grow stronger in body and in spirit. This groundbreaking is not just about a new facility. It’s about expanding a mission. It’s about saying yes to health, inclusion, diversity and an opportunity for every person who calls Livingston home.”
Valley Bank Regional President Fred Castrovinci said that community spirit aligns with the mission and the vision of the bank.
“This project is a true representation of our commitment to community, our commitment to impacting lives and our commitment to driving partnerships in a different way than others,” he said. “We want to play an active role in the communities we serve.”
Tanella couldn’t have agreed more. He said the project is symbolic of those who made it possible.
“It’s a bold vision, but one that’s only possible because of the collective efforts of so many of our generous donors, our dedicated staff, engaged volunteers and trusted community partners,” he said. “Thank you: You are not just helping build a building, you are helping build a legacy that will impact generations to come.”
