McKeesport is losing one of its prime recreational facilities for residents, young and old.
The McKeesport YMCA will close June 1, three weeks after its pool closed. That day will be the final day for membership and wellness activities, according to the Executive Director Dexter Hairston.
"Membership has been steadily declining over the past years," Hairston said. "And in our aged facility, overhead and occupancy costs make it financially difficult to continue."
Like all of the nation's 2,686 YMCAs, the McKeesport Y is an independent, autonomous nonprofit organization.
A spokesperson for YMCA of the USA said any decisions about the McKeesport operations will be made by its board of directors and professional staff.
"YMCA of the USA is aware of the challenges facing the McKeesport Y, and we are working closely with the board and local staff to ensure that YMCA programs and services continue to be available to McKeesport and the other communities this Y serves," the spokesperson said.
The financial dilemma in McKeesport has caused concern among members, who are asking what facilities they will use.
"We have worked with the Wilmerding YMCA to accept our members, and many have already started to attend," Hairston said.
