MONROE — A little rain didn’t stop the crowd from gathering on May 9 for the Green County Family YMCA’s groundbreaking. The event ceremoniously kicked off the construction of an addition that will double the size of the building.
The YMCA facility’s board of directors, several donors, staff, members and other community partners were on hand for the event. A capital campaign over the last year-plus raised more than $25 million for the project, which also received many grants from governmental agencies and community funds.
“We look forward to the future of our Y as we become a community hub where all people, regardless of age and socio-economic background will have access to life-changing health and wellbeing programming and services — a collaboration with other non-profit entities in and around Green County like nothing our rural community has ever seen before,” Green County Family YMCA said to members in an email May 10.
The ceremony included speeches from several people involved in the project, as well as a surprise visit from Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers. He spoke about the importance of childcare and its relationship to economic development.
Brian Hatzung spoke on behalf of the architectural company about the amount of work that goes into a project of this magnitude.
Dan Chovanec represented CG Schmidt construction and reiterated their ongoing commitment to Monroe and the Green County community.
John Baumann of Colony Brands Foundation spoke about how communities are able to thrive when they have a strong YMCA and how they in turn are supported by the generosity of local businesses.
Olivia Otte, executive director of Green County Development Corporation, thanked the board and staff for all the hard work that has been put into this project thus far.
Trent Henning, executive director of the Green County Family YMCA, thanked the entire community for their support and shared his excitement for what is to come.
Luke Smetters, the local YMCA Membership & Community Engagement Director, wove each of the speakers together as he introduced them.
Also this week a new traffic and parking pattern emerges due to the site’s construction. All vehicles should enter the parking lot via 2nd Street and follow the painted directional arrows.
There are four new handicap parking stalls along the East side of the building.
Construction Updates will be provided as they become available.
The newly enhanced YMCA facilities are estimated to be open Spring 2025.
Those with questions or concerns regarding construction or safety in the upcoming weeks and months should reach out to Smetters at lsmetters@greencountyymca.org.