Lake Houston Family YMCA Unveils Expanded Facility
By Linda Dalton
I moved to Kingwood in September of 1993 – the month the Lake Houston Family YMCA first opened its doors. Nearly seventeen years later, the YMCA in Kingwood is looking new again. On May 13, I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony marking the facility’s $5 million expansion project and was amazed at the results.
The host of the event was Jenna Dhayer, the YMCA’s executive director. She welcomed the members of the business community and the YMCA board and saying: “So many of you have been involved in this project for so many years. From the bottom of my heart, and my staff’s heart, we really appreciate your support.”
Dhayer recognized Keller Williams Realty Northeast Co-Owner Mark Heinrich for more than 20 years of volunteer efforts for the YMCA. She noted that he has been involved in all three capital campaigns, served on the board for 12 years and was named Volunteer of the Year.
Then it was time for a tour. My tour of the new YMCA had already begun when I parked in the new lot to the south of the building. I was a little confused to how to access the building from there, but I eventually headed to the sidewalk along Lake Houston Parkway and followed it to the new entrance which faces the street. I opened the door onto the spacious new lobby, complete with comfortable seating, WiFi access and a prayer chapel.
From there, I headed straight to the main attraction: the new 6,700 square foot Wellness Center with additional Cybex, expanded free weight area, personal viewing screens on cardiovascular equipment and Fitlinxx® computerized coaching system. It was buzzing with activity – even at 10:30 in the morning. The old weight room has been turned into a much needed, larger yoga and Pilates’ studio.
The former yoga room has become an expanded Child Watch room which connects to a new outdoor playground. The teens also have a new room with interactive games and equipment.
As an incentive to try the new amenities at the YMCA, the $100 joining fee has been waived until May 31. It’s time to try the Y!
The Lake Houston Family YMCA is located at 2420 West Lake Houston Pkwy. 281-360-2500.
