Since its move to its current location in 1980, the Weingart-Lakewood Family YMCA had faced challenges related to visibility, reduced parking availability and growing demand for space. To address these issues, the facility doubled in size to 32,000 square feet, allowing for the addition of an exercise room, a family changing area, a yoga room, a teen center, a board room and a teaching kitchen. Childcare, adventure guide and administration offices were expanded and improved, and basketball courts, locker rooms and racquetball courts were refurbished.
Space was cleared to create a 16,000-square-foot addition, resulting in a strong architectural identity and welcoming “front door.” The original lobby was replaced by the new grand hall — a north/south circulation spine filled with natural light. Now highly visible from the street, the grand hall and second-floor fitness room serve as a beacon to the community.
The fitness center features floor-to-ceiling glass, offering views of the pool and a nearby park. The elevated vantage points earned the fitness center the nickname “the treehouse.”
With the new addition, the YMCA can accommodate 50 percent more members. In its first months of operation, the facility attracted younger members and family memberships, ensuring growth for the future.
Baxter Arena – University of Nebraska Omaha
