Stories From Main Street: Effort Underway To Keep New Rochelle YMCA Afloat
NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- When is a pool more than just a place to swim? When it's a community hub.
"Everybody uses the pool," said Julie Gallanty, who runs the New Rochelle YMCA. "It crosses all economic lines, all ethnic lines. It really is the true fabric of New Rochelle."
The New Rochelle YMCA has served the public since 1899. However, its future is uncertain, WCBS 880's Sean Adams reported. During renovation work last fall, contractors discovered the roof over the 30-year-old pool could cave in.
Stories From Main Street: Effort Underway To Keep New Rochelle YMCA Afloat
Without the pool, the Y might close.
Staff members made a video appealing for donations. They need $400,000 to help pay for $1.4 million in repairs.
"Getting in the pool was the best thing I ever did because the buoyancy with your muscles and everything, it's incredible," said pool regular Robin Lobe. "So I miss it terribly."
Beryl Dorset comes for the aquacise and stays for the conversations.
"In the locker room, we discuss everything, from what doctor to go to, what movie to see, what's happening for the day," she said. "We get together as a group. It's the nicest experience."
Westchester County Clerk Tim Idoni said the YMCA is one of the few affordable places around where everyone, young and old, can learn an essential life skill.
"It would be a real tragedy if New Rochelle lost this facility," he said. "I mean, it really does give the opportunity, especially to those who need affordable health facilities to be able to go there and get a good workout in or just even to socialize."
"We need to keep this pool open to keep the Y doors open," Gallanty added.
