June 3 Update
In addition to our main entrance, visitors are encouraged to use the Winter Avenue NW entrance for more direct and convenient access to the building.
May 29 Update
Starting Monday, June 2, you’ll see construction fencing installed near the front of the David D. Hunting YMCA as early work begins on the new Amway Stadium. While this transforms our entrance into a temporary construction zone, our doors remain open—and we’re excited to welcome you in!
To ensure your safety and keep everything running smoothly, crews will install a temporary bridge over our entrance area while they work on utilities beneath the building.
What to Expect:
- Same entrance with clear directional signage.
- Staff on-site during peak hours to guide you.
- Allow yourself extra time—sidewalks and pathways may shift.
- Frequent updates from us as things evolve.
We know all construction disruptions can be frustrating. It’s not easy and you’re not alone in that feeling. That said, this is an important step in a new chapter for our neighborhood and we’re here to make it as smooth as possible.
Parking Update:
We encourage you to register your license plate for free and easy parking at GVSU’s Seward Parking Ramp at 520 Lake Michigan Drive NW—just across from the Y.
Please Note:
The ramp will undergo resurfacing on levels 2–4 from Friday, May 30, through Sunday, June 8. Full access will be returned on Monday, June 9. In the meantime, the surface lot at 505 Fulton St. W., located just south of the ramp, will be available for that week only. Signage will be posted to assist you.
Thank you for your continued patience, flexibility and support. If you have any questions, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Beginning Monday, May 19, Summer Avenue NW will permanently close due to stadium construction. Going forward, please use Winter Avenue NW to reach the David D. Hunting YMCA parking lot.
What is the Y’s position on the stadium?
As an organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, we acknowledge the importance of thoughtful urban development and the positive impact it can have on the lives of families as well as the Y’s commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for our members and the community. Carefully considering these factors against a stadium’s potential impacts on the Y, its programs and the local economy at-large, on Feb. 2, 2024, our board voted unanimously in support of Grand Action 2.0’s Amway Stadium plan.
The Y’s board and senior leadership look forward to continued discussions with key stakeholders who share the goal of enhancing the overall quality of life for everyone in our community. By working together, we can find solutions that benefit both the vitality of the neighborhood and the mission of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids.
When is construction expected to begin? Is there an anticipated date of completion?
We anticipate stadium construction to begin April 2025. We will provide updates as they become available through a variety of channels, including our website, email and mobile app. We encourage all members to verify their email address when joining, to download the Daxko app and enable notifications to ensure they are up to date on current news, events and offers.
Where will I park when I visit the David D. Hunting YMCA?
The Y has entered into a parking agreement with Grand Valley State University (GVSU). This parking agreement will offer our members more spaces in a covered parking garage at GVSU’s Seward Parking Ramp while they are using the David D. Hunting YMCA. Since peak parking times are at different times of day for GVSU and the Y, this is a win-win for downtown.
We are collaborating with Grand Action 2.0 to develop a proposed skybridge connecting the Seward Parking Ramp to our downtown Y:
What does this mean for me?
- Convenient, weather-protected access: The skybridge would provide a covered walkway from GVSU’s Seward Parking Ramp to the Y, eliminating concerns about inclement weather.
- A long-term investment in member convenience: This project builds on our ongoing efforts to ensure a stress-free parking experience while maintaining seamless access to the David D. Hunting YMCA.
- Part of a bigger vision: As downtown Grand Rapids continues to grow, we are committed to ensuring our members benefit from improvements that make visiting the Y even better.
What are my other options to travel to the David D. Hunting YMCA?
You have several transportation options when heading to our downtown branch, including: biking, walking, carpooling and public transportation. Please visit ridetherapid.org for schedules, maps and fare information as you plan your next visit.
How will construction impact activities, events, programs and services at the David D. Hunting YMCA?
Maintaining access to the activities and amenities that matter to you is a primary focus for the Y. We are exploring scheduling solutions and program adaptations.
Can I visit other branches?
Members are always welcome to visit any of our branches! We encourage exploration of all our facilities, trying different classes and meeting fellow members. Each branch offers its own unique set of amenities and programs, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Click here for other Y branch schedules so we can help you meet your health and wellness needs during this time.
Why did you sell the parking lot?
We made the decision to sell our portion of the parking lot, recognizing that as we’ve only ever owned one-third of it, our ability to influence its future was limited. Embracing this understanding, we chose to focus on opportunities where we could have a greater impact.
Why didn't the Y alert me sooner?
It is important to us to convey accurate information in a timely manner. We understand your concern: the upcoming changes to the David D. Hunting YMCA’s footprint are significant. We’ve been diligently working to secure a solution while abiding by all legal agreements.
