The YMCA in Downtown Denver has announced its upcoming closure. The property will soon transform into affordable housing. Meanwhile, members and staff will be offered alternative options.
YMCA in Downtown Denver to Close After Over 150 Years
For more than 150 years, Downtown Denver’s YMCA has served as a central hub for fitness and community activities. The COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on membership and operations has forced the historic YMCA to close its doors. Now, 40,000 square feet of the Downtown facility has been sold to the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless.
Established in 1906 at 25 E. 16th Ave by then US Vice President Fairbanks, the YMCA has long been a cornerstone of Denver’s downtown community.
Facing a severe decline in membership post-pandemic, the YMCA was unable to hold on. Adding to this mix is the high operational cost of the center, which contributed to the decision. Meanwhile, Denver is facing an affordable housing crisis.
With just 25 affordable housing units available for every 100 low-income households, the demand in Denver remains urgent. So, this transformation comes at the right time for locals.
Property to Convert into Affordable Housing
In 2000, the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless purchased several YMCA housing units and has managed them successfully since. As many members did not return post-pandemic, CEO Breezy Bolden consulted with local community groups about the building’s future. The Coalition was among them and offered to buy the rest of the building for affordable housing. Bolden agreed to the deal, and the decision was thus made.
The Coalition plans to renovate the units with private kitchens and bathrooms, convert office spaces into additional housing, and preserve the historic basketball court and fitness center for residents.
Impact on Members and Staff
While the transformation is underway, plans have also been made for the members and staff. Alternative downtown fitness options and access to other metro centers will be given to current members. Meanwhile, the staff will be redeployed to other metro branches after the closure.
Although the closure is a significant change for the community, local leaders support the conversion, which will add much-needed affordable housing downtown. The YMCA of Downtown Denver is set to close on December 30, 2025.
