PGA golfer Brad Faxon speaks to dignitaries, and YMCA members during a reception for the BAyside YMCA groundbreaking on Thursday.
BARRINGTON — Officials marked an important day in the future of the Bayside Family YMCA on Thursday as they ceremonially broke ground on a new facility.
A group of about 50 people attended the morning event, which began inside the gymnasium because of the overcast weather. Bayside Family YMCA Executive Director Joe Martino handled the emcee duties, while PGA professional Brad Faxon, who helped with some of the project’s fund-raising, spoke about his memories of spending time at the YMCA while growing up in town.
Senator David Bates recognized the importance of the project and presented a proclamation from the Rhode Island General Assembly. Greater Providence YMCA President and CEO Karen Leslie also spoke to the crowd.
The group eventually made its way outdoors to a small grassy area near the front walkway where a pile of dirt rested underneath a pop-up tent — that’s where the officials dug shovel-fuls of dirt to mark the start of the work.
Actual construction will not begin until revised plans are approved by the Barrington Planning Board, which could take place as soon as December. The revised expansion plans show a scaled-down facility — fund-raising has been slower than anticipated due to the economy. Phase 1 will include a new state-of-the-art swimming pool, locker rooms and a new foyer/welcome area.
The footprint of the building also is being reduced by about 10 feet around the facility which means a reduction of several thousand square feet of space.
The groundbreaking also served as a launch for the “community campaign” of fund-raising throughout Barrington, Riverside, Warren and Bristol.
“We have 30 volunteers who will be canvassing friends and neighbors,” Mr. Martino said.
Comments
NiceTry 6 months, 1 week ago
The public has already helped a lot with the projet. Barrington taxpayers already donated "a lot" - the parking lot easement. And other expenses that "the town" paid for. The YMCA is used by taxpayers from many other municipalities.
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