YMCAJamestown (CSi) James River Family Fitness in Jamestown has announced that a decision by the University of Jamestown will close the swimming pool area in the Larson Center (former Y) facility beginning July 1, 2015.

JRFF Executive Director Frank Conlon, says, the growth of the University’s athletic teams has caused the need for more space, and pool will be converted to a Wrestling Room for the men’s and women’s wrestling programs, slated for the fall of 2015.

It’s been noted by the university that space at UJ’s Hansen Center can no longer accommodate the student-athletes.

Conlon adds, the Two River Activities Center (TRAC) June 2, 2015, vote for a one percent city sales tax for the initial funding to build the facility, if approved, would rectify the absence of a pool, if approved by voters.

James River Family Fitness would dissolve and re-locate to the TRAC facility, becoming a part of the Jamestown Parks and Recreation Department.

Conlon reminds everyone about the good relationship JRFF and prior to that the James River Family YMCA, has had with the college/university over the years as tenants.

University of Jamestown President, Robert Badal and other UJ officials have outlined plans for a $50 million capital campaign that includes building and renovating athletic and academic facilities.

The work at the Larson Center is the first step and will start as soon as possible after the spring semester ends on May 8, 2015.

The work includes Hansen Center, Lyngstad Center, Nafus Student Center and at the Liechty Center/Taber Hall. Work will also start on installing a turf practice field southeast of the Larsen Center.

The $16 million project, involves existing space and new spaces.

 

Meanwhile…

JamesRiverFamilyFitnessThe Two Rivers Activity Center (TRAC)  Board of Directors has approved a schedule for three community forums/ workshops prior to the June 2, 2015 special election on a one percent city sales tax to fund the project.

The forums are scheduled for April 21 at the Gladstone Inn & Suites, April 27 at the Jamestown Middle School’s Thompson Community Room and May 15 at the North Dakota Farmers Union headquarters. All forums begin at 7 p.m.