YMCA Funding Approved

The Board of the Community Redevelopment Agency approved a $6 million "owner participation agreement" for construction of the Wilshire YMCA on Oxford Avenue in the Wilshire Center/Koreatown area. Councilmember LaBonge, a longtime supporter of this much-needed project, praised the board for its decision.
"This YMCA will bring a wide range of recreational opportunities to the most densely populated section of Los Angeles," the Councilman said. "The attractive building, which incorporates many green-building features, will further revitalize an area that got a big boost from the beautiful Charles H. Kim Elementary School next door."
When completed, the 2-story 32,000 square foot comprehensive full facility (with a parking structure for 150+ cars) will involve between 10-12,000 men, women and children every year in one of L.A.'s most underserved neighborhoods. The new YMCA's proximity to Kim Elementary offers many opportunities for programmatic synergies.
The "owner participation agreement," which is the largest single capital grant ever received by a YMCA in Los Angeles, was based on the organization's promise to operate a YMCA at this location.
Congratulations to everyone who worked hard to complete this agreement. The City Council will hear the item soon.