The Government of Canada confirmed funding support for the new Downtown Hamilton Family YMCA through the Build Communities Strong Fund. This recognizes the YMCA as a key community infrastructure project supporting health, housing, revitalization, and local economic growth. Final documentation and contribution agreements are in progress.

The total project is estimated at approximately $72 million for the YMCA component, supported by a three-tiered funding plan (government, philanthropy, and other sources). Updated costing will be confirmed as part of the 2025 design and site plan process.

The YMCA’s funding model includes: Federal investment (announced), Provincial and municipal contributions (actively being pursued), Philanthropic support, and proceeds from the disposition of the current building. Together, these ensure the facility is sustainable and accessible long term.

The project is moving from planning into pre-development and design refinement. Key items still underway include site plan approval, updated costing, construction timelines, and finalization of government partnership agreements.

Not yet. The YMCA HBB and Collecdev-Markee are progressing toward the formal submission required by the City of Hamilton. More detailed designs will form part of that process.

The YMCA has a conditional agreement with Collecdev-Markee that supports the coordinated redevelopment of the full block. This is not a traditional sale. It is a structured, multi-year partnership that allows the project to move through planning and design while ensuring the YMCA will experience no downtime in its service offerings between today and the completion of the new, purpose-built Centre of Community.

The goal is to begin construction within the next 18 to 24 months, subject to planning approvals and finalized agreements. The first phase of the redevelopment, which includes the new YMCA Centre of Community and the initial residential tower, is expected to take approximately five to seven years to complete.

The redevelopment creates a modern, inclusive Centre of Community offering:

• Health, fitness, aquatics, and recreation
• Child care, youth programs, and family supports
• Settlement and newcomer services
• Employment and social programs
• A highly accessible, transit-connected location
• A Net Carbon Zero design (in collaboration with Mohawk College)

• Confirmation of federal contribution agreement
• Provincial and municipal funding decisions
• Submission and approval of site plan
• Final design, costing, and construction readiness
• Launch of capital campaign activity
• Transition planning for the current facility

This is a unique community-building partnership. Collecdev-Markee, the housing partner for the block, is advancing a significant co-operative housing development, and the YMCA’s participation is integral to unlocking approximately 600 co-op rental units. The YMCA is not a standalone project; it is part of a coordinated vision that strengthens housing, health, and downtown revitalization together.

The Men’s Residence will continue to operate in the current facility throughout the planning 
and redevelopment period. Both programs within the residence, including lodging and the 
new transition program, will be maintained. The YMCA remains committed to supporting the 
men who rely on these services and to maintaining stability in the space where housing and 
related supports are provided.

As the block-wide redevelopment advances, the YMCA is assessing long-term options with 
partners, including opportunities where the YMCA could continue as an operator of men’s 
residence programs. More details will be shared as planning progresses and timelines are 
confirmed, ensuring any future transitions are coordinated, dignified, and responsive to 
community needs.

The YMCA Board provides high-level governance oversight for this major capital redevelopment, ensuring the project aligns with the organization’s long-term vision, financial stewardship, and community commitments. To support this work, the Board has established a dedicated Task Force to focus on the project’s key decision points, strategic risks, and partnership considerations. Together, the Board and Task Force offer strategic direction, monitor progress at a governance level, and support the CEO in advancing the project on behalf of the Association.