YMCA set to begin operations in new downtown South Bend location this summer

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Pending approval from the South Bend Redevelopment Commission at their April 25 meeting, the YMCA of Greater Michiana will begin operations to build a new facility in the heart of downtown South Bend next summer. 

After securing approval, the YMCA says they will begin leasing the third and fourth floors of 111 W. Jefferson Blvd., a space currently occupied by Beacon Health and Fitness, from the City of South Bend in June.

The agreement states that the YMCA will lease the location on Jefferson Boulevard, known as the Leighton Healthplex space, rent-free through Dec. 31, 2032, in exchange for transferring ownership of its 1201 Northside Blvd. property to the city at no cost.

Downtown South Bend YMCA operations are expected to commence this summer, while the city says it plans to use the land acquired from the YMCA for future development. 

Beacon Health and Fitness members can still use the facility through May 31.

"The City of South Bend is excited to continue a downtown fitness presence and grateful to the YMCA for its willingness to take over fitness operations downtown,” said Mayor James Mueller. “We are grateful for the YMCA's continued commitment to expanding operations in South Bend. The city will move forward with redevelopment of the former YMCA on Northside Blvd., which will benefit both the nearby neighborhoods as well as the entire South Bend community."

Officials say the YMCA O’Brien Center (just 3.5 miles away at 321 E. Walter St.) will continue to be operational and that, under a new three-year agreement currently being finalized with South Bend Venues Parks & Arts, it will remain readily available to YMCA members.

“Our new downtown South Bend location continues the over 140-year legacy of the Y in this region. We’re excited by the endless possibilities the space holds and proud to have partnered with the city and Beacon to make it happen,” said Andre Gammage, St. Joseph County Magistrate Judge and a member of the YMCA’s Board of Directors. “Together, we’re ensuring that South Bend residents will continue to have access to a wide range of exceptional resources that will support them and their families and strengthen the community. Moreover, we look forward to the emergence of new opportunities for the City of South Bend from our former Northside Boulevard site.”

During the transition period, the YMCA says its members will have full use of the O’Brien Center and its amenities.

"Additionally, YMCA members will enjoy the availability of other YMCA facilities across the region, ensuring uninterrupted access to fitness and recreational resources," the organization stated in a release. "Beacon Health and Fitness is generously donating equipment and supplies to the new YMCA facility."

Beacon Medical Group offices and Memorial Outpatient Therapy Services will remain in their current location on the first floor of the Leighton Healthplex building.

YMCA officials say the new location will "offer a wide range of amenities, including cardiovascular and weight training equipment, personal training, basketball court, racquetball court, indoor track, lap pool, therapy pool, whirlpool, saunas, aquatic and fitness classes, locker rooms, and more."

The YMCA says they will collaborate with the city on future facility upgrades, ensuring that necessary improvements are made to enhance the overall member experience.

“We are honored to continue Beacon Health System’s work of promoting community wellness and grateful to the City of South Bend for their support in our expansion,” said Mark Weber, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Michiana. “We remain committed to engaging with members and stakeholders throughout this transition process and look forward to welcoming everyone to our grand opening celebration in the coming months.”

You can visit the YMCA's website for membership information and opening updates.