| The Wellness Center will be
front-and-center when the first phase of a renovation plan is
complete by early April. The center is being moved upstairs,
where windows will showcase the center and provide a constant
reminder that a first-class facility is available right in the
middle of the city. "We want as much visibility and light in
this room as possible," YMCA President and Chief Executive Officer Addy Bonet
said. Overall, the entire building's interior is being
reconfigured for ease of access, greater security and a more
efficient use of the historical site. The YMCA's membership activities
will be separate from its programs that offer housing and
shelter, and key-card entry will add safety for all. On a tour
of the building, Bonet showed off the progress of the
renovations that are designed to attract more members from
Plainfield and nearby towns. Besides its indoor track, pool
and gym, the YMCA has a weight-training room, steam room
and sauna and will soon offer yoga and Pilates classes. In
addition to renovating men's and women's locker rooms, the
YMCA has added a room where parents can take young children
for changing clothes. Bonet said the membership facilities
hadn't had an upgrade for about 30 years.
The activities offered will span all ages. Besides combating
childhood obesity and providing adults with a range of exercise
activities, the YMCA has a "Silver Sneakers" program for
seniors."We are here for wellness," Bonet said.
As Bonet described
some of the changes recently, member Landreth Bute, 45, of
Newark was signing in at the desk. Bute, who joined the YMCA in 1988, said he likes the fact that it is
quieter than most gyms."You're able to get in and out," he
said.
Another appealing factor for Bute is the mix of people of all races and
backgrounds.
"Once we're in gym clothes, we're all the same, and everyone
gets along," he said.
Bute is all in favor of the upgrades."I believe it's totally
positive. It's long overdue and definitely a step in the right
direction," Bute said.
Changes will start at the front door.
Currently, there are two main doors off Watchung Avenue that
lead to fitness areas and the service programs. One door will
become an emergency exit only and railings will guide members to
the first-floor Wellness Center and related health activities.
People who are staying at the YMCA's homeless shelter or
living in its residence for single men will gain more privacy
with a separate entrance. Key cards will speed access and let
staff know who is in the building.Among other changes since
Bonet arrived last summer, the YMCA
board has expanded from seven to 18. A strategic planning
retreat in March will "roll out our vision for the next three to
five years," Bonet said. Anthony Buonpane, the new
vice-president for finance and housing development, is
implementing innovations including a parking lot gate card,
better security and software for administrative functions.
The YMCA still has all its traditional programs for young
people and adults, but Bonet wants people to take a fresh look.
"If you haven't been to the Y in a few years, you need to come
in and see what's going on," she said. |
