Somerville YMCA Hopes To Minimize Disruptions During Planned Rebuild

SOMERVILLE, MA — Vladimir Benoit, the president and CEO of the Somerville YMCA, has said his organization hopes to minimize disruptions in services during a planned rebuild of the Highland Avenue YMCA.

In a letter to the community, Benoit also offered a few more details about the project he said will include a full-service YMCA facility, mixed-income residential units and other community-serving amenities.

"This project is designed to bring together various amenities and services for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, with a strong focus on collective impact," Benoit wrote in an outreach statement.

Benoit added: "We believe that this mixed-use development project will provide opportunities for growth, collaboration and a stronger sense of belonging."

On social media, Somerville City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen provided additional clarity about the project. Ewen-Campen said the YMCA intends to rebuild a modern, expanded facility at the same location, 101 Highland Ave. The project also will include an adjacent property on School Street, which connects to the rear of the Highland Avenue site.

Ewen-Campen said it likely will be at least 18 to 24 months before work begins.

In his letter to the community, Benoit explained the impacts that the construction work could have on the YMCA and its services.

"While we anticipate that the construction phase may cause minor inconveniences, we assure you that every effort will be made to minimize disruptions," Benoit wrote. "Our team will work diligently to ensure that any necessary service adjustments are communicated well in advance, and alternative options will be explored to provide uninterrupted access to the Y programs and facilities you rely on."

Benoit also addressed potential concerns among people whose residence is at the YMCA facility, stating that the organization's priority is to find suitable housing alternatives within the new development or through partnerships with local organizations and agencies.

"We are committed to ensuring that no one is left without a safe and stable home," Benoit wrote.