Senator Collins Helps Break Ground on New YMCA in Bangor
Project is supported by $6.5 million in Congressionally Directed Spending secured by Senator Collins
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BANGOR, ME — U.S. Senator Susan Collins today participated in a groundbreaking for the new Bangor Region YMCA. She was joined by Bangor YMCA CEO Diane Dickerson, members of the Board of Directors, and dozens of local supporters of the project at the event. Senator Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured a total of $6.5 million in Congressionally Directed Spending through Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024 appropriations legislation to support the construction of the new facility and the purchase of equipment for the planned Comprehensive Health Center.
“The Bangor Region YMCA has long provided invaluable support and services to both local and surrounding communities, helping families and neighbors live healthier, fuller lives for more than 150 years,” said Senator Collins. “This new facility will allow the Y to expand its reach, increase enrollment in childcare and youth programs, and improve its community health and wellness services.”
The new facility, the Cathy Gero Bangor Region YMCA, will replace the current 45,000-square-foot building with an 82,000-square-foot, fully accessible space that reflects years of planning and community collaboration. It will include a full-court gymnasium, an indoor run and walk track, a community kitchen and café, a STEAM Maker Space, and new spaces for youth, teen, and family programming. It will double the number of openings for licensed and affordable early childhood education and before- and after-school programs, while also introducing infant care for the first time. A new Community Health Center will expand evidence-based programs that help Mainers prevent and manage chronic diseases.
Through her role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion in Congressionally Directed Spending for 514 local projects across Maine in the last 5 years, including investments that strengthen rural infrastructure, support childcare and workforce development, and improve access to health care.
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