Sussex County YMCA Breaks Ground on $3.3 Million Wellness Center Expansion

The Sussex County YMCA in Hardyston broke ground on Monday, November 9, 2026 on a $3.3 million Wellness Center expansion that will add about 5,000 square feet and more than double its fitness space. The branch at 15 Wits End Road stays open during construction, which is expected to finish in August 2027.

The project also adds a permanent covered pavilion on the Y’s upper field for summer day camp and year-round outdoor programs. Here is what members and families can expect.

What the Expanded Wellness Center Will Include

According to the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges announcement, the larger Wellness Center will have:

• Expanded free weight space, with more racks, benches and room to lift
• Additional functional training areas for strength, mobility and small-group training
• EGYM smart strength equipment that adjusts to each user and tracks progress
• A dedicated space for recovery and wellness
• More equipment and floor space during the busiest times

“Our members asked for more space and we’re responding,” said Corey Brown, executive director of the Sussex County YMCA. “We’re building a better experience for anyone who walks through our doors, whether they’re picking up a weight for the first time or working on their next goal.”

A New Pavilion for Day Camp

The covered pavilion on the upper field will give campers shade and shelter in summer and let the Y serve more children and families. The Y’s expansion project page says the pavilion takes about a month to build, with work starting in late October 2026.

Who Is Building It and How It Is Paid For

The Y is working with two Sussex County firms, HQW Architects and Wallkill Group. The $3.3 million cost is covered by capital investment from the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges and philanthropic gifts, including a $500,000 commitment from the John A. and Margaret Post Foundation.

“This expansion represents more than additional square footage. It’s an investment in our members, our staff, and the future of the Sussex County YMCA,” said Richard K. Gorab, president and CEO of the Metro YMCA of the Oranges.

What Members Should Know During Construction

• Staying open: the Y remains open for the whole project, and members will get notice if a space, program or entrance is affected.
• Parking: expect tighter parking, posted signs and one-way traffic along the rear lot by the construction zone.
• Pickleball: the YMCA Pickleball Center keeps operating as normal.
• Rates: the Y says membership rates are not changing because of the project.
• Hours: the facility is open Monday to Thursday 5 AM to 9:30 PM, Friday 5 AM to 8:30 PM and weekends 7 AM to 4 PM, per the branch page.

Questions about the project go to Corey Brown at cbrown@metroymcas.org, and anyone interested in supporting it can contact Chief Development Officer Deborah Kessler at dkessler@metroymcas.org. The branch phone is 973-758-9039.

More to Do Nearby

Spending the day in the area? See our guide to things to do in Hamburg and Hardyston, and if you prefer a smaller studio class, our list of yoga and Pilates studios in Sussex County.