LYNN — At the moment, construction for the new YMCA building on Neptune Boulevard is proceeding as scheduled.
But, says Kathleen Walsh, president and CEO of the Metro North YMCA, that is a fluid situation.
“It could change,” said Walsh, who, a little over a year into her job, faces major challenges on a number of fronts due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are hoping our site doesn’t shut down, but as a matter of public health and safety we will adapt to what the mayor tells us to do.”
Walsh says that the Y is heading into uncharted territory in more ways than with the construction of the new building, which is slated to hold its grand opening Nov. 7.
“There is no playbook, no manual,” she said. “We are in contact with the construction company and the architect, and whatever we’re told to do, we will do.
“That’s how it’s been every step along the way. We want to be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem.”
The site, which takes up what used to be a traffic island across from the current building, is big enough, she said, so that workers are able to comply with the suggested six feet of distance between each other. Beyond that, “it’s out of our hands. We’ve been watching this (COVID-19) situation since January, and we’re adjusting. We’re doing what everybody else is doing: trying to make decisions at the right time.”
Walsh is aware the target date could extend into next year. But, she said, the new building is not her biggest concern at the moment.
“My biggest concern is our current buildings, or staff being laid off. And of members not being able to keep up with their physical and mental health via fitness. It’s really about the people here, and we have to make decisions based on that.”
And that will require a new way of operating.
“Our whole premise has to change,” she said. “Our mission doesn’t end. We have to figure out what’s next.”
Walsh said the Y is open for emergency child care and for meals. She credits Lynn branch manager Andrea Baez with coordinating the Y’s breakfast and lunch program with the Lynn Public Schools.
Said Walsh in a statement sent to members of both the Y and the Lynn community, “we will provide essential child care for 1,000 families, many of whom can’t afford to stay home. We will build our capacity to serve 4,000 healthy meals to hungry kids.
“We will create new ways to engage our 2,000 senior members by encouraging them to stay active and fight the social isolation caused by the ban. These next weeks will make a big difference to many people.”
She also recognizes the obstacles people in Lynn face.
“We are in a city where people have to work,” she said. “This is a critical time for people. If they don’t work, they don’t get paid.”
Walsh said the Y is also ramping up a plan to accommodate members affected by the closing of the gym.
“Beginning Monday, we will have Facebook live (exercise) classes for people,” she said, “and we are going to potentially have some small-group walking and running clubs.
“We want people to feel connected,” she said.
“We have been in Lynn for 150 years,” she said. “We’ve survived wars. We’ve survived a lot of things. Right now, we’re going to be in a new normal.
“We need to be a rock for the community now,” she said. “We need to be a ray of hope. We can’t panic. We’re going to get through this.”
As part of a network of nonprofits in Lynn, Walsh reminded people of their importance in times such as these.
“Now is more important than ever to support nonprofits,” she said. “They’re vital. We need the community to rally together.”