Under construction for 7 years, Toronto’s Beaches is finally getting a YMCA

After lengthy COVID-19 pandemic delays, residents in Toronto’s east end are getting set for a new YMCA to open in the Beaches neighbourhood next month.

It has been long-awaited for community members, but finally, after seven years of construction, the new YMCA is opening its doors.

Before members can officially begin to workout, YMCA staff have been offering tours, showing off its new location.

The gym was initially set to open in 2020 but COVID-19 altered those plans. Photo: YMCA.

“It is gorgeous,” one woman said. “It’s so exciting to have its opening. We have been watching it for so long, peering through the windows to see what is happening. I am really looking forward to using it.”

The YMCA is more than 62,000 square feet and includes a full-sized basketball gym, fitness area and two pools.

Staff say they’re happy to not only be able to off youth programming for job opportunities and volunteer experience but also a space that is accessible and inclusive.

“We know that there is a need to make sure everybody can access the way that they want and what makes them most comfortable,” said Mehdi Zobeiry, General Manager of the Steve and Sally Stavro Family YMCA, who spoke from a universal washroom and showed off the facility’s full-length pool.

“We have a wheelchair ramp for the pool. If you need to get in that way, you can.”

The gym was initially set to open in 2020 but COVID-19 altered those plans. Zobeiry says that despite the lengthy delay, everyone is eager to welcome community members.

“This is what it’s all about. Having fun, being healthy and allowing people to enjoy themselves in a welcoming environment. I’d say it was well worth it.”