Plainfield YMCA celebrates finished renovations

The C.W. Avery Family YMCA in Plainfield has completed a new gym. On Friday morning, staff and board members celebrated the accomplishment with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Staff gathered to give tours of the new additions for members to appreciate.

The newest expansion is a huge step for improving families’ opportunities to participate at the YMCA, officials at the event said.

“Anyone that wants a Y experience, should have a Y experience,” said Jim Watts, president and CEO of the greater Joliet Area YMCA.

Watts said this specific YMCA has about 15,500 members and is expecting that number to grow over time in the near future. The expansion, which allows for space for more members, will likely contribute to the growth.

“What a wonderful place this is,” Plainfield Mayor Michael Collins said. “Not only is this Y a jewel for Plainfield, but also a diamond for Will County.”

Lisa Behounek, the executive director of the C.W. Avery Family YMCA, said the idea to improve the gymnasium came from observing how crowded the space was over time. She also mentioned that staff listened to member feedback about how they wanted additional space in the fitness areas because of crowding.

“We’re really happy about the finished product,” Behounek said. “We feel like we’re going to be able to help people reach their health goals.”

And the new addition isn’t the last of plans for this YMCA.

“Down the line, we would like to add another gymnasium as well as renovate locker rooms,” Behounek said.

Behounek encourages the community to check out the YMCA website to learn more about programs for kids and people of all ages. Visit jolietymca.org or call 815-782-0820 for information.