YMCA Moving out of Fairford St. E Location

Robert Thomas

In what is sure to be surprising news for many, MJ Independent has learned the Moose Jaw YMCA is set to move out of its flagship Fairford Street East or Crescent Park location. The Y will be returning the keys to the building they have been leasing from the City.

CEO at the Y, Jeff Fox confirmed the move, stating it was "something we were looking at for the last 10 years." The Y annually reviews its operations, Fox said.

A more formal statement was set to be released following a meeting of the Y's board, he stated.

The Fairford Street location has served as the Y's headquarters since 1972.

MJ Independent has also learned the Y has met at least on one occasion, in camera, with Moose Jaw' Executive Committee to discuss the issue. No public decision or minutes from the in camera meeting have been released.

A confidential source within City Hall confirmed the subject of the in camera meeting and some details but declined to go in great detail on the matter.

The building allowed the Y ready access to the now closed indoor Natatorium Pool as well as the outside Phyllis Dewar Pool.

When the location for the new indoor pool was being debated, the Y fought strenuously and publicly to have the new facility in Crescent Park.

Reporter's notes from that era reveal the reasons given were building the new indoor pool in a central location allowed easier access for all plus without the indoor pool the Y's programs would suffer.

In the end, Council chose the Kinsmen Sportplex location at the corner of MacDonald Street West and 9th Avenue NW.

Staff have already been advised of the Board's decision. It is unknown if there will be any job losses.

There is no indication the Y will be closing  any of its other facilities. The Y operates a fitness centre in the basement of the Moose Jaw Co-op, as well as childcare and a family support centres.

It needs to be noted that the decision to move out of the Crescent Park location was made prior to a recent water main break which forced the Y to temporarily close its Crescent Park location.
The extent of the damage, if any, is unknown.

No date is available at press time when the Y will officially vacate the building.

We will keep you updated on any new developments to this story.