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Our Commitment to Grove City
Grove City Council has voted to move forward with plans for an independent, city-owned and city-operated community center at Pinnacle Park. Throughout this process, the YMCA has advocated for a joint venture with the City to expand the YMCA at Fryer Park — building on an existing community resource while expanding access, maximizing taxpayer investment and strengthening programming for residents. While that path was not ultimately chosen, we remain honored and grateful for the YMCA members and advocates throughout the community who shared their voices in support of a partnership.
For decades, the Grove City YMCA has been more than a gym; it’s been the heartbeat of our community, serving five generations with care and commitment. In 1998, the City of Grove City identified a need for a multigenerational community recreation center and approached the YMCA of Central Ohio to fulfill this need for Grove City. In 2002, the City of Grove City partnered with the YMCA to provide land at Fryer Park to build this multigenerational community recreation center for residents, known as the Grove City YMCA. Each year since then, thousands of Grove City residents have relied on the Grove City YMCA as their hub for accessible wellness programs, high-quality childcare and community connection. Together, we will continue to build on that foundation.
Our promise to you is simple: the YMCA is committed to investing in Grove City so that every resident has access to the programs, services and spaces that help them thrive, without spending unnecessary community dollars.
Where Things Stand Today
On July 20, 2026, Grove City Council votes 4-2 to move forward with a city-owned and city-operated community center at Pinnacle Park, independent of the YMCA. While we are disappointed by the outcome, we continue to believe a partnership would have provided the greatest long-term value for residents, taxpayers and the community at large. Grove City's consultant reported to Council on June 29, 2026 that a joint venture with the YMCA would save the City $14.5-$15.5 million in construction costs alone. The YMCA estimates that a partnership would save taxpayers more than $40 million in combined capital and operating costs over the next 20 years.
March 24, 2026
As a result of advocacy efforts, the YMCA is invited to present a partnership proposal to Grove City Council. City Council votes 6-1 to request City Administration to create a side-by-side financial comparison of a City-only model vs. a City + YMCA partnership.
April 20, 2026
Grove City presents an overview of the proposed 0.5% income tax increase to help fund the annual operating subsidy for a city-owned and city-operated community center. This annual subsidy is projected to be $2.5 million in year one.
June 29, 2026
City firm presents financial comparison to Grove City Council, projecting $14.5-$15.5 million in capital cost savings through a City + YMCA partnership.
July 20, 2026
Grove City Council votes 4-2 on Resolution CR-28-26 to move forward with a city-owned and city-operated community center at Pinnacle Park, as opposed to a YMCA partnership.
Our Commitment Continues
Our Commitment Continues
For decades, the Grove City YMCA has been more than a gym; it’s been the heartbeat of our community, serving five generations with care and commitment. Looking ahead, that commitment remains unwavering, and we will continue investing in the programs, services and spaces that help you and your family thrive. Alongside our members and the Grove City community, the Grove City YMCA will continue to be a place where children gain confidence, families build lasting memories, older adults find connection and every person has the opportunity to belong and thrive.
1,220 Youth empowered to thrive last year through youth programs
1 in 7 Residents are members
5,696 found belonging last year through membership
$4M+ in Scholarships awarded to the community since 2003
Why We Proposed A Partnership
Cost-Effective
Sustainable & Proven Model
170-Year Legacy of Expertise
Trusted Nonprofit
Cost:
Effective:
A Grove City YMCA expansion in partnership with the City would save the City and taxpayers approximately $40.15 million in the first 20 years alone in capital and operating costs while providing the same facility size and scope as the City is proposing. In addition, it would allow taxpayer dollars to go toward critical safety and infrastructure that enhance our community and reduce traffic instead of being used to duplicate existing services and facilities.
Proven Model:
A City + YMCA partnership reduces risk and maximizes return on public investment, further enhanced by the YMCA’s diversified revenue model which supports long-term sustainability. Through a partnership, Grove City would gain a leader and expert to oversee facility management and operational duties, relieving the City of the cost and burden of building maintenance, staffing, programming and day-to-day operations.
Legacy of Expertise:
With decades of experience, the YMCA is a trusted leader and expert in community center operations, child protection and development, water safety, innovative programming for five generations and state-of-the-art facility models.
Trusted
Nonprofit:
As a trusted nonprofit organization that has served Central Ohio for 170 years, the YMCA is able to leverage public and private sector funding and established relationships and partnerships to advance vital community programs and services.
Stay Involved With The Grove City YMCA
We appreciate our dedicated community of supporters. You allow us to serve the Grove City community every day, and with your support, we will continue to help all of our Grove City neighbors build a healthy spirit, mind and body.
Invite Friends & Family
To experience the Y and see our collective impact firsthand
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dolly Crespo, Grove City YMCA Executive Director, at dcrespo@ymcacolumbus.org or 614-389-4567 x5510