Westfield, IN

Ascension St. Vincent YMCA in Westfield

A Collaborative Complex Serving The Whole Community

Can a collaboration between several entities – in this case, the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, a public school system, the city, and a hospital system, federal funders, and other philanthropies – result in a cohesive structure that serves all interests?

Unlike the proverbial camel (i.e., “designed by committee”), these parties came together to create an exciting new community hub. The 2-story, 54,500-square foot Y is an addition to a 32,000-square-foot aquatics center with a 10-lane pool that was built in the first phase of this two-phase project. The Ascension St. Vincent YMCA (the newest extension of the Indianapolis organization) manages the aquatics center that also serves as the school district’s swim facility. 

The complex is composed of several massings, punctuated by signage walls that credit the structure to its several partners (the school, the Y, and the sponsoring healthcare system, Ascension St. Vincent). Inside, the facility and programming are all about health, education, and wellbeing for students and all members of the community. It has a 2-court gymnasium, indoor running track, wellness area, three fitness studios, childcare facilities, a demonstration kitchen, community room, administrative areas, non-secular chapel, and locker rooms. There are also seven classrooms, conference spaces, and administrative offices.

“Through its many programs, the YMCA offers many ways to keep kids active,” said YMCA CEO Gregg Hiland. “And that’s just critical for a child’s overall health and development.”

Gro partnered with CSO Architects, AECOM Hunt (construction), and TLF, Inc. (engineers) on the project.