Harrisburg, PA (09/28/26) – The Harrisburg Area YMCA has been awarded Statewide Local Share Account (LSA) funding to support significant improvement projects that will expand accessibility, enhance community services, and strengthen the YMCA’s ability to serve residents throughout the Capital Region.
The funding will support an elevator installation project at the historic East Shore Branch YMCA, planned facility renovations at the Friendship Branch YMCA, and selective demolition within the West Shore Branch YMCA.
“We sincerely thank Representative Davidson, Representative Fleming, and Senator Kim for their support of these investments in the Harrisburg Area YMCA,” said David Ozmore, President & CEO of the Harrisburg Area YMCA. “The funding will help improve accessibility at our historic East Shore YMCA and advance critical facility enhancements at the Friendship YMCA, ensuring we can continue providing high-quality programs and services.”
“We are also immensely grateful to Senator Rothman and Representative Delozier for their support in the West Shore YMCA renovation project, which will help us create a more welcoming and accessible space that better serves everyone who walks through our doors,” said Ozmore.
Investing in the East Shore YMCA
The Harrisburg Area YMCA was awarded $800,000 in funding to support the installation of a new elevator at the East Shore Branch YMCA. A new elevator will improve the building’s ADA accessibility, enhance safety for members and visitors, support emergency response access, and improve operational efficiency throughout the facility.
This project represents the first phase of a broader renovation strategy designed to expand transitional housing services for those experiencing homelessness in the city, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the historic building.
“These investments reflect a commitment to strengthening community spaces that serve residents of all ages and abilities,” said Senator Patty Kim. “By improving accessibility at the historic East Shore YMCA and expanding programming capacity at the Friendship YMCA, these projects will create lasting benefits for children, families, seniors, and the broader Harrisburg region.”
Investing in the Friendship YMCA
The Harrisburg Area YMCA was awarded $300,000 in funding to support the planned expansion of the Friendship Branch YMCA.
The Friendship YMCA serves thousands of community members annually through youth sports, childcare, wellness, and senior programming. The planned expansion will create additional capacity for youth mentoring, after-school activities, workforce development opportunities, health education programs, and social engagement initiatives for older adults.
“The Friendship YMCA provides valuable programs and services that strengthen families, support young people, and create opportunities for older adults to stay active and engaged,” said Representative Justin Fleming. “This funding will help expand the facility’s capacity and ensure the YMCA can continue meeting the growing needs of our community for years to come.”
Investing in West Shore YMCA
The Harrisburg Area YMCA was awarded $273,000 in funding to support extensive renovations at the West Shore Branch YMCA. “This investment is an important first step in reimagining the West Shore YMCA for future generations,” said Ozmore.
The planned improvements will reconfigure the entrance lobby, childcare areas, administrative offices, locker rooms, and fitness spaces, preparing the site to better accommodate growing participation and changing program needs.
“The West Shore YMCA is a hub for a community activity, providing needed spaces, important services, and valuable opportunities,” said Greg Rothman. “Upgrading a facility that thousands of residents rely on each year strengthens public health, supports local families, and enhances the region’s overall quality of life.”
The Statewide Local Share Account Program is administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority and supports community and economic development projects that improve quality of life for Pennsylvanians.
