Somerset Hills YMCA Expansion

SOMERSET HILLS YMCA: EXPANDING TO SERVE

 

Over the past 70 years, there has been significant growth in our community and in membership at Somerset Hills YMCA.

To continue to best serve you, our members, and address emerging community needs, we are expanding and renovating to overcome the challenges and limitations of our facility.

The overall goals of this capital project are to create:

  • Expanded and improved wellness space to remove barriers for everyone, all ages and abilities, to be physically active
  • More space throughout the building and opportunities to expand vital programs
  • Additional space to provide a safe and positive environment for social connections

Toward that end, we have launched a fundraising campaign to expand and renovate Somerset Hills YMCA.

Now, you too can be a part of this exciting time of growth by making a gift to Somerset Hills YMCA’s Strong Past Bright Future Capital Campaign.

The two-story, 14,000 square foot expansion and renovation project will include:

1st Floor Plans 

  • Expanded, modern Wellness Center, which will allow for increased:
    • Functional fitness training
    • Free weights
    • Cardio equipment
  • Relocating Wellness Center offices to create a more open space
  • Level and replace Wellness Center flooring for improved accessibility

2nd Floor Plans 

  • Three new multipurpose studios
  • One expanded, renovated Spin® studio with tiered levels
  • One renovated multipurpose studio
  • Larger, more modern restrooms

Additionally, the project includes mechanical system enhancements for better efficiency, climate control and comfort throughout the facility.

Looking toward the future, we want to ensure that the Y can best serve our current members and also address emerging community needs in the years to come. This includes programs for children, adults, seniors, individuals with special needs, as well as programs that address social issues such as mental health, substance abuse prevention and chronic disease.

But, the fundraising campaign is about more than bricks and mortar…

Your investment in our Strong Past, Bright Future Campaign guarantees more wellness opportunities for all ages, improved accessibility for individuals of all abilities, additional program opportunities and more space for positive social interactions.​

 

This expansion will allow us to provide you with the best possible experience at the Y, and we are excited about the opportunities it will bring.

 


CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS & UPDATES

January 29, 2020

Have you been to our Wellness Center lately? We have so much new equipment, you might not recognize it!

As we continue work on our renovation, we’re so happy to announce new lines of state-of-the-art fitness equipment, giving more options to everyone from beginner fitness enthusiasts to the seasoned athlete, including:

  • eGym
  • Keiser
  • Cybex Eagle
  • Synrgy 180 Training Systems
  • SledMill
  • Assault AirBikes
  • Assault AirRowers
  • Assault AirRunner Treadmills
  • Hammer Strength Plate Loaded Equipment

Plus, there’s so much more space along with new barbells, dumbells, platforms and rigs.

Come by to see what’s new as we continue to invest in your health and well being!


January 8, 2020

We’re so excited to announce that new Keiser strength equipment will be arriving on Wednesday, Jan. 15!

Keiser is strength equipment that uses air resistance for safe, smooth exercises. Extremely user-friendly and ideal for the beginner as well as the seasoned athlete looking to do explosive movements safely. Our Keiser offering comprise a total of 19 pieces, including 2 functional trainers.

We are proud to be able to offer our members resistance options for every population from the beginner to the athlete to the powerlifter. We also recently added eGym, smart fitness equipment that is completely motorized and retains individual member settings. Complimentary RFID wristband. Orientation required. The training system includes 10 pieces of equipment that engage all major muscle groups.

More new fitness additions are on the way as we continue to build a better Y for you!


September 26, 2019

Please be advised that we will be relocating some fitness equipment that may impact your workout this weekend as we continue work on our expansion and renovation.

Members should be aware of the following that may or may not impact your workout this weekend:


SATURDAY, SEPT. 28:

Temporary relocation of several cardio machines into the newly completed renovation of the front half of the existing Wellness Center.

What this means for you:

  • No access to upright and recumbent bikes, as well as some other equipment as it is being moved.
  • Members will still have access to available ellipticals, treadmills and stair mills not impacted by this move

SUNDAY, SEPT. 29:

The main entrance to the Wellness Center will be reopened

What this means for you:

The entrance to the Wellness Center from the café will be temporarily closed while that portion of the Wellness Center undergoes renovation


September 4, 2019

We’re so happy to announce Kidz Korner is back with a fresh look, including a cool new design to go along with our fun toys and games! Since every parent deserves a break, we offer complimentary babysitting at Kidz Korner, so bring the kids by to check out the new space while you get in your workout at the Y!


August 26, 2019

Construction activity continues to bustle here at the Y! A new wall has been put up in Studio 1, to be followed soon by mirrors and other furnishings. Our upper level corridor continues its makeover with the removal of steel beams, which made room for a recently installed wall. HVAC and other projects continue to be completed as we work to bring you a new and improved Somerset Hills YMCA!


August 8, 2019

Fill it up! We’re excited to announce our new water fountain and bottle fill is now open in the Wellness Center! Refill your water bottle or take a few quick sips to stay hydrated throughout your workout!


July 30, 2019

Thank you to all our members for your patience and understanding when we closed early on July 25 to accommodate HVAC work at our facility. The work was another exciting improvement project included in our continued expansion and renovation!


July 11, 2019

We have some exciting updates regarding our 7,000-square-foot Wellness Center expansion project! Here’s what’s new and coming up:

  • Piping for our new Wellness Center water fountain has been installed. The installation should be complete in August.
  • Second floor corridor doors between our existing space and new space will have magnetic door holds installed.
  • Equipment for studio music will be installed by the end of August.

Progress continues every day, and we thank you for your continued patience during this exciting time of transformation at the Y!


June 13, 2019

Thank you for your patience!

We want to take a minute to acknowledge and thank our members for their patience as renovation has begun on some of the existing spaces in the facility. Last week brought big changes as the 7,000-foot Wellness Center expansion opened and this week as we began utilizing three brand new studios on the upper level. Concurrently, work began on renovating approximately half of the existing Wellness Center on the main level and the Spin Studio and Group Exercise 2 on the upper level. Temporarily relocating equipment, classes and staff has come with a few hiccups along the way. However, in just one short week, we are happy to share that:

  • TV and internet access is now connected and functioning on all temporarily-relocated equipment
  • Mirrors will be installed by the squat racks in the Wellness Center beginning this coming Tuesday
  • New water fountain installation in the Wellness Center is in progress and anticipated at the end of next week or shortly thereafter–members are encouraged to utilize the fountains in the main hallway in meantime.

Please know that our teams are working continually to do all we can to provide the best possible experience during this exciting time of transformation. In just a few short months, we promise it will all have been worth it!


May 23, 2019

We have several exciting Somerset Hills YMCA Expansion and Renovation Project updates to share!

What’s been completed so far?

The two-story 14,000-square-foot expansion of Somerset Hills YMCA is nearing completion, featuring an additional 7,000 square feet of Wellness space for members, including three brand new group exercise studios on the upper level.

What’s next?

  • The B. Fit room (not the program) will close on Saturday, May 25.
  • The Kinesis room will close on Sunday, June 2.
    • The Kinesis wall and associated equipment will be temporarily stored during this renovation phase.
  • Beginning on or about Monday, June 3:
    • A comprehensive renovation of the existing Wellness space will begin.
      • We will remove existing offices to expand available space.
      • Flooring in the existing Wellness Center will be leveled to help make the space more accessible for all.
      • Refreshed lighting, finishes and aesthetics will be added to provide an enhanced member experience.
      • Renovation of existing space will happen in stages to minimize impact on members and ensure all existing equipment remains accessible to members throughout this entire process.
    • There will be the start of a complete renovation of existing spaces on the upper level inclusive of the SPIN® Studio, Personal Training Studio and Group Exercise 2.
  • Beginning on or about Thursday, June 6:
    • HVAC improvements in the Dance Studio and Kidz Korner on the main level will begin.
      • HVAC enhancements will include better climate and humidity control resulting in improved air quality for members.

What can members expect to see?

Wellness Center:
  • The front portion of the existing Wellness Center will be enclosed for the start of renovation work in that space.
  • Members will only access the Wellness Center through the entrance by the Cafe and locker rooms during this time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I get into the Gymnasium?
A: Access to the Gymnasium will be temporarily limited to what was previously an emergency exterior exit from the Gym that opens into the Wellness expansion. Look for Y staff and ample signage to help guide members to the Gymnasium during this phase of construction.

Q: How will I know where my class is temporarily located?
A:
 Please see in-branch signage, handouts at the Welcome Center, and our online schedules for current, class-specific information during this renovation phase of construction or speak to any Member Service Representative.

Q: Will the B. Fit program continue?
A: 
Yes, B. Fit for existing participants will continue in a specialized format to ensure the best Wellness introductory experience. While the existing Wellness Center is undergoing renovation from approximately June 1 to July 15, however, we will not be taking new people into the program at this time.

We will continue to support current B. Fit participants with a Wellness Coach 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Coaches will be easily identified by wearing a red staff shirt. Evening participants can be supported by our Floor Supervisors.

Relocating B. Fit to the Wellness Center will provide participants with a superior introduction to fitness in a comfortable, non-intimidating environment, provide more stretching and workout space, and better help them achieve their fitness goals once they graduate from the 12-week program.

The entire Wellness staff and wellness coaches will support participants with the transition into the Wellness Center where they will continue to benefit from the same exercise equipment they have become familiar and comfortable with.

Participants will continue to receive individual instruction, monitoring and feedback after they leave the program.

Q: What if I have additional questions about how I utilize the facility during construction?
A: 
Please speak to any Member Service Representative. They will be glad to assist you.

Q: Will elevator service be disrupted?
A:
 No. Elevator service will be fully accessible at all times on all levels of the facility.

Q: Why is Somerset County and Plainfield YMCA expanding the Somerset Hills YMCA – Mt Airy location?
A:
 Expanding Somerset Hills YMCA will ensure that we can best serve our robust membership and also address evolving community needs. The expansion will enhance the membership experience and provide additional opportunities for programs and services that allow everyone to improve wellness and live healthy, connected lives.

Q: What does the total expansion and renovation project include?
A: 
The expansion project will include:

  • 2-story, 14,000-square-foot addition to the back of the building
  • Expanded, modern Wellness Center on the 1st floor
  • 3 new multipurpose studios on the upper level
  • 1 new SPIN® studio with tiered levels on the upper level
  • 1 renovated multipurpose studio on the upper level
  • New, larger restrooms on the upper level
  • Upgraded mechanical system for improved climate control and comfort
Q: What will the Y be able to provide as a result of the expansion and renovation?
A: Renovations and additions will better enable Somerset Hills YMCA to continue to strengthen our community by:
  • Creating a more inclusive space to ensure individuals of all ages and abilities have access to programs and services
  • Providing new and more program options such as:
    • Innovative fitness classes and wellness options
    • Preventative health programs including chronic disease prevention and management
    • Additional programs for individuals with special needs
    • Programs that meet community needs and address social issues
  • Allowing for additional space to provide a safe and positive environment for social connections for all ages

Q: Will the expanded Wellness Center include new fitness equipment?
A:
 Yes. Within the expanded space we have plans to include new equipment in addition to the current equipment such as more cardio equipment, free weights and functional fitness area with turf.

Q: What is the timeline for construction and completion?
A:
 Work began on August 18, 2018, and is expected to conclude in December 2019.

Q: What is the cost of the Somerset Hills YMCA expansion and renovation project?
A: 
The total cost of the project is approximately $7.0 million.

Q: Will this project affect Somerset Hills YMCA membership or program fees?
A:
 No. The cost of expanding and renovating Somerset Hills YMCA will be funded through donations and community support. However, the fees for membership and programs are reviewed annually and are subject to change.

Q: Where can I receive updates?
A:
 We will keep members informed about progress and any temporary changes that may occur through this page on our website as well as through email.

Q: Will members be able to utilize other Somerset County and Plainfield YMCA locations?
A: 
Yes. Members are always welcome to utilize Somerville YMCA, Bridgewater YMCA and Hillsborough YMCA. Learn about our other locations here (link to Locations page). Additionally, your membership allows you to visit any YMCA in the United States and Puerto Rico at no additional cost, provided they participate in the Y’s nationwide membership program.

Q: How can I help?
A
: All members are welcome to contribute to Somerset Hills YMCA’s capital reinvestment campaign. If you wish to learn more about opportunities to contribute to this exciting project and the future of Somerset Hills YMCA, please contact Kelly Castro today.


January 3, 2018

We have new restrooms upstairs in the Wellness Center! Both the men’s and women’s rooms feature handicap-accessible toilets and hands-free automated faucets. Located next to our Group Exercise room, taking a bathroom break has never been this convenient!

The new restrooms help support our ongoing expansion project that will include an updated Wellness Center on the first floor, three new multipurpose studios, one new Spinning® studio with tiered levels and a renovated multipurpose room.


September 5, 2018

Distinguished guests gathered for the ceremonial groundbreaking that marked the beginning of Somerset Hills YMCA’s expansion project, including (left to right) President of Frankoski Construction, Joseph Frankoski; Somerset County YMCA Senior VP & CFO, Karyn Lightcap; President of Somerset County Business Partnership, Mike Kerwin; Mayor of Bernards Township, John Carpenter; Chair of Somerset County YMCA Board of Directors, Mark Irwin; Somerset County YMCA President & CEO, David Carcieri; Somerset Hills YMCA employee and Special Olympian, Kristen Clark; Somerset County Freeholder, Mark Caliguire; Vice Chair of Somerset County YMCA Board of Directors, John McManus; Property Development Committee and Somerset Hills YMCA Branch Board Member, Michael Osterman; Somerset Hills YMCA Executive Director, Cheryl Tuturice; Somerset County YMCA Vice President of Property Development, John Gorman; Principal of Kramer & Marks Architects, George Marks; and Somerset Hills YMCA Branch Board Member and Founder of the Saturdays in Motion Program, Art Raynes.

Groundbreaking Ceremony

Somerset Hills YMCA, a branch of Somerset County YMCA, officially broke ground during a ceremony to celebrate the beginning of a $7.0 million expansion project that will enhance the Y’s ability to serve the community.

As a charitable organization, the Y’s cause is to strengthen community. Somerset County YMCA is delivering on that cause by investing in Somerset Hills YMCA in order to best serve the health and wellness needs of Somerset Hills residents, as well as to meet emerging community needs. The Somerset Hills YMCA expansion is part of the Y’s “Strong Past, Bright Future” campaign–a campaign to support reinvestment projects for all four branches of Somerset County YMCA.

“With over 145 years of serving Somerset County, the Y has established a strong past as the foundation upon which to build a bright future. We are setting our sights higher because we believe our Y holds great promise,” said David M. Carcieri, president and CEO of Somerset County YMCA. “This project is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about the impact it will have in the community by removing barriers for everyone to be physically active; by creating a safe, positive environment for social connections; by expanding programs for children, adults, seniors, and individuals with special needs and all abilities; and by offering even more preventative health programs and addressing social issues.”

Community leaders and local officials were on hand for the ceremonial groundbreaking to demonstrate their commitment to the Y’s cause. Event attendees included Somerset County Freeholder, Mark Caliguire; Assemblyman Erik Peterson’s Chief of Staff, Kevin Oswald; Bernards Townsip Mayor, John Carpenter; Somerset County Business Partnership President and CEO, Mike Kerwin; members of Somerset County YMCA’s Board of Directors and Somerset Hills YMCA’s Branch Board.

“In my family, our lives revolve around the Y. I understand the value the Y brings to the community,” commented Somerset County Freeholder, Mark Caliguire. “The fact that Somerset Hills YMCA needs to expand is great – it means that the Y is helping more people to improve wellness and get healthier. In fact, Somerset County is the 2nd healthiest county in the state. I applaud the board, donors and staff for making this expansion a reality.”

At the groundbreaking event, Art Raynes, a longtime Y member, branch board member and founder of the Y’s Saturdays in Motion program, shared his thoughts on the importance of the expansion. ”For 27 years my family has had so much fun running Saturdays in Motion, the volunteer-led recreational program for children with autism at the Y,” remarked Mr. Raynes. “They Y has always been exceptionally welcoming and accepting, especially to individuals with varying abilities. At the Y, we look beyond the disability and just see the person – that is what makes this an incredible place. This expansion will lead to even greater inclusion and participation.”

The Somerset Hills YMCA project, a two-story, 14,000 square foot addition to the back of the building, will include an expanded, modern Wellness Center on the first floor, and three new multipurpose studios, one new Spinning® studio with tiered levels, one renovated multipurpose room and new, larger restrooms on the second floor. Additionally, an upgraded mechanical system will improve climate control and comfort throughout the building.

Somerset Hills YMCA’s ambitious project is the result of hard work and collaboration on behalf of Somerset County YMCA’s dedicated board volunteers and staff leadership over the past three and a half years, as well as the generous support of donors. Through philanthropy, donors to the Y’s campaign have an opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impression on the community. For more information on how to support the project, please contact Kelly Castro, vice president of philanthropy, at 908 417 5393 x100.


August 6, 2018

Since 1948, Somerset Hills YMCA has been serving the needs of the community through programs and services that transform lives. Looking toward the future, we want to ensure that the Y can best serve our current members and also address emerging community needs in the years to come. This includes programs for children, adults, seniors, individuals with special needs, as well as programs that address social issues such as mental health, substance abuse prevention and chronic disease. With that in mind, in August of 2018, the Y will embark upon an exciting expansion and renovation project. The expansion will open additional space for enhanced wellness and program opportunities.

Expansion Overview

The expansion project will include a two-story, 14,000 square foot addition to the back of the building as well as mechanical system enhancements for better efficiency, climate control and comfort throughout the facility. The expansion will also include the following:

2nd Floor Plans 

  • Three new multipurpose studios
  • One new Spin® studio with tiered levels
  • One renovated multipurpose studio
  • Larger, more modern restrooms

1st Floor Plans 

  • Expanded, modern Wellness Center to run the full length of the Gymnasium, which will allow for increased:
    • Functional fitness training
    • Free weights
    • Cardio equipment
  • Relocating Wellness Center offices to create a more open space
  • Level and replace Wellness Center flooring for improved accessibility

Expanding to Serve

The expansion project will continue to strengthen our community by:

  • Expanding and improving wellness space that removes barriers for everyone, all ages and abilities, to be physically active
  • More program space throughout the building and opportunities to expand programs
  • Additional space to provide a safe and positive environment for social connections

To minimize the impact on members, the expansion will be completed in phases. It will begin August 18, 2018 and is expected to conclude in 18 months.

This expansion will allow us to provide you with the best possible experience at the Y, and we are excited about the opportunities it will bring.

What can you expect?

Regular updates on project progress will be posted here and sent to subscribed members via email


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Why is Somerset County YMCA expanding the Somerset Hills YMCA – Mt. Airy location?

A: Expanding Somerset Hills YMCA will ensure that we can best serve our robust membership and also address evolving community needs. The expansion will enhance the membership experience and provide additional opportunities for programs and services that allow everyone to improve wellness and live healthy, connected lives.

Q: What does the expansion and renovation project include?

A:  The expansion project will include:

  • Two-story, 14,000 square foot addition to the back of the building
  • Expanded, modern Wellness Center on the 1st floor
  • Three new multipurpose studios on the 2nd floor
  • One new Spin® studio with tiered levels on the 2nd floor
  • One renovated multipurpose studio on the 2nd floor
  • New, larger restrooms on the 2nd floor
  • Upgraded mechanical system for improved climate control and comfort

Q: What will the Y be able to provide as a result of the expansion and renovation?

A: Renovations and additions will better enable Somerset Hills YMCA to continue to strengthen our community by:

  • Creating a more inclusive space to ensure individuals of all ages and abilities have access to programs and services
  • Providing new and more program options such as:
    • Innovative fitness classes and wellness options
    • Preventative health programs including chronic disease prevention and management
    • Additional programs for individuals with special needs
    • Programs that meet community needs and address social issues
  • Allowing for additional space to provide a safe and positive environment for social connections for all ages

Q: What is the timeline for construction and completion?

A: Work will commence on August 18, 2018 and is expected to conclude in 18 months

Q: What is the cost of the Somerset Hills YMCA expansion and renovation project?

A: The total cost of the project is approximately $7.0 million

Q: Will this project affect Somerset Hills YMCA membership or program fees?

A: No. The cost of expanding and renovating Somerset Hills YMCA will be funded through donations and community support. However, the fees for membership and programs are reviewed annually and are subject to change.

Q: Will construction impact how I utilize the facility?

A: To minimize the impact on members, the expansion will be completed in phases and we will work with our contractors to mitigate disruptions for our members. As various areas of the Y are impacted, we will make accommodations when possible and members will be informed through this page on our website, email and signage in and around affected areas.

Q: Will parking be affected by the construction activity?

A: A portion of the far end of the parking lot by the end of the gymnasium will be reserved for construction vehicles as needed according to each phase of the construction.

Q: Will the renovation have an impact on child care programs?

A: Through our planning for the construction, we have worked to minimize any impact on our child care programs, including our Early Education Center and School Age Child Care. If and when there will be any impacts to how these programs utilize our facility, participating families will be informed in advance. Kidz Korner babysitting for members while they work out will be unaffected by construction.

Q: Will the expanded Wellness Center include new fitness equipment?

A: Yes. Within the expanded space we have plans to include new equipment in addition to the current equipment such as more cardio equipment, free weights and functional fitness area.

Q: Where can I receive updates?

A: We will keep members informed about progress and any temporary changes that may occur through this page on our website as well as through email.

Q: Will members be able to utilize other Somerset County YMCA locations?

A: Yes. Members are always welcome to utilize Somerville YMCA, Bridgewater YMCA, and Hillsborough YMCA. Additionally, your membership allows you visit any YMCA in the United States and Puerto Rico at no additional cost, provided they participate in the Y’s Nationwide Membership.

Q: How can I help?

A: All members are welcome to contribute to Somerset Hills YMCA’s capital reinvestment campaign. If you wish to learn more about opportunities to contribute to this exciting project and the future of Somerset Hills YMCA, please contact our Chief Philanthropy Officer today