Ridgedale YMCA: Huge Redo Coming?

The YMCA has given the a preliminary outline of major improvements they would like to see happen over the next couple of years.

The plan includes tearing down the existing building and replacing it with a campus of three buildings, including a new, smaller YMCA center, a 150-unit senior residential complex and a single-story medical office building.

“When you look at the demographic of the Minnetonka area, it’s aging,” Bette Fenton said. “The real need is there to provide options for older adults.”

The project is in a very early stage, however. The YMCA Board hasn't approved the proposal, formally filed an application with the city, made major decisions about contractors or finalized site plans. 

That said, both the YMCA and the City of Minnetonka are looking to raise money to make the project a reality. The YMCA has raised $4.5 million towards building the new YMCA fitness center, but that's only one piece of a larger development. 

“The whole model of the Y is strengthening the foundations of a community,” Fenton said.  “We raise capitol dollars year round for this. So much depends on fundraising.”

The city has already applied for two state grants on behalf of this project. Beyond that, tax increment financing, both in Minnetonka and pooled money outside the city, are pathways to securing the funds needed to get this project off the ground. Tax increment financing borrows against future tax revenues to fund public projects such as this Ridgedale YMCA development.

The sale of portions of the site for private development of senior housing and a medical clinic would also generate revenue for the project. City officials estimate the total cost of the project could be in the neighborhood of $36 million, but without final site plans, that number could very likely change. 

According to Tom LaSalle, a representative from the YMCA, if the city is unable to give financial assistance, the project would be scrapped and the current YMCA would instead be remodeled. A study session in August will give city council members an opportunity to ask and get answers to questions about the project.

But council members seem largely supportive. LaSalle, referencing market research, said 45 percent of local households have interest in programs for people ages 55 and up. The new YMCA building would also include senior-friendly amenities such as a warm water pool. 

The little public concern that has been voiced has centered on increased traffic, possible negative impacts on existing sightlines and concern over natural resource protection. City staff wants to hold another neighborhood meeting to give more neighboring property owners an opportunity to provide input.

Once the YMCA chooses to file a formal application, the proposal would be introduced at a city council meeting, and then reviewed by the planning commission. Then, based on input from the planning commission, professional staff, and the general public through a series of public meetings, the city council would take final action.

“We have no idea when the formal application would be. We have to find the money, find a developer,” Fenton said. “But it’s really exciting what the possibilities are.”