Tue., April 26
Huntington Ave YMCA Update

The Central YMCA on Huntington Ave — the oldest one in the nation – looks like it will be undergoing an extreme makeover. Last fall, Northeastern University announced that they had reached an agreement with the YMCA, and Phoenix property company, to buy two wings of the Y. The plans are to convert them into student housing. This could relieve the burden that students are putting on residential housing. It could also mean that close to 3,000 of the YMCA’s members will be displaced, and the long tradition of community service would change irreparably. With a demolition delay imposed and community members fighting to save the Y, recent approval from the Boston Redevelopment Authority means Northeastern University is getting closer to breaking ground on a new residence hall.

Joining us to talk about what’s at stake for the community is City Councilor Mike Ross; he represents District 8 (Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Fenway, and Mission Hill). We're also joined by Calvin Arey. He’s been a member of the YMCA for 14 years, and he’s put together a petition against the proposed plans.