Proposed YMCA-SFU development will not proceed

Plans for a Surrey City Centre YMCA will not proceed, the result of escalating construction costs.

The project, a development partnership between the YMCA of Greater Vancouver and Simon Fraser University, with support from the City of Surrey, was to include a YMCA-SFU facility and high-density residential housing on the university’s Surrey property.

Since the project was first conceived by the YMCA and City of Surrey six years ago, costs have climbed to $75 million.

Recognizing the important role a YMCA could play in the growing Surrey City Centre neighbourhood, Surrey and the YMCA each committed $20 million to the project in 2017.“

All three partners have been deeply committed to advancing this innovative project to benefit SFU students and the Surrey City Centre community,” said YMCA President and CEO, Stephen Butz.

“Unfortunately, over the past few years, construction costs have increased dramatically throughout the region to the point that this particular project is no longer feasible.”

Butz added that the YMCA was in the preliminary phase of a capital fundraising campaign for the project.

“We very much appreciate the support of everyone in Surrey who volunteered to help or donate.

Over the coming days we’ll be in touch with donors, stakeholders and supporters to thank them for their commitment to the idea of a YMCA in City Centre,” said Butz.

“The City of Surrey remains committed to providing recreation opportunities to the residents in North Surrey through the provision of a diverse range of programs at our existing facilities,” says Mayor Doug McCallum.

“Surrey continues to partner with SFU and the YMCA on many positive partnerships that will benefit students and the community.”