1711 Rhode Island Avenue, NW
“Dear PoPville,
I learned to my dismay that the YMCA National Capital branch will be put up for sale (or is it already up for sale?). This was told to me by a reasonably strong source who was communicated this last week by management officially. They are seeking the big bucks for the location and trying to get over losses they had at the new Antony Bowen location (14th and V). They will let go eventually all of the hourly employee and move around the permanent staff.
This is quite shocking news since this is the only somewhat affordable community gym facility in downtown Washington, not to mention one of the very few swimming pool of a decent size… plus it offers the community some activities such as kids summer camp, and so on which will likely not be easily replaced…Also very weird since they closed the Potomac Branch on June 1. Seems that the Board is completely careless about community needs and instead of replacing the incompetent management and manage the place once and for all professionally, they’d rather cash in. I can’t believe it!”
Ed. Note: The 17th and Rhode Island Ave YMCA location were having a membership drive this weekend. When asked about a possible sale of the building – they said they hadn’t heard this news. Updates when/if more info becomes available.
UPDATE from the Board of Directors & staff leadership of the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington:
“As part of our ongoing strategic planning process, the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington has been reviewing its operations, services and resources including a comprehensive assessment of YMCA National Capital’s long-term feasibility and impact. We are in the process of reviewing proposals from multiple local real-estate developers interested in the redevelopment of this property.
As a non-profit organization with limited resources, the YMCA must continually evaluate community demographics and needs to strike the right balance in fulfilling our mission. Our buildings may house us, but they do not define us. We have a tremendous opportunity to grow and broaden our reach, but in order to do so, we have to establish more appropriate and efficient models for service delivery. To that end, we are actively looking for new sites in the District to open a family-centered YMCA. Our goal is to serve more people and to be a positive force in the District and beyond. The YMCA takes great pride in being a vital part of the community for 163 years.”
