YMCA published a request almost a year ago asking firms to submit request qualifications for architectural services. Following the submission of proposals a committee of community volunteers studied responses from 13 firms and narrowed that group down to six semi-finalists to participate in a design competition.
Four local firms, namely Clarke Caton Hintz and Fraridy, Veisz, Fraytak of Trenton; Hone + Associates of Lambertville; and Silverberg Associates of Princeton were finally chosen for the project.
The firms were directed to create designs for a YMCA facility of about 43,000 square feet, to include gymnasium, family fun pool, locker rooms, indoor track, child watch rooms, teen center, and cafe and wellness center.
The master plan was also designed to allow for future expansion, and inclusion of a senior center, affordable housing, and other potential partners. A strategy is also to be designed to create a green facility.
Design elements such as shared parking and walking paths, combined with natural water detention systems, solar panels and maximization of natural lighting make the project environment-friendly.
The community center is expected to spread over 13 acres, while the construction is expected to be managed by Epic Management.
