Eugene Family
YMCA
Eugene, Oregon
The Eugene Family YMCA development project was a long-term effort that spanned over a decade, concluding successfully in December 2023. Initiated in 2015, the project began when the YMCA acquired a vacant property from the Eugene School District 4J, formerly home to Roosevelt Middle School which had been rebuilt next door.
Early on, the project focused on fundraising and budgeting, including significant contributions from a state lottery grant and an anonymous donation. Despite periods of stagnation due to leadership changes, the design team, contractors, and YMCA leadership persevered to align the budget and design. Redpoint Construction Management supported the YMCA as the owner’s representative later in the project, while deChase Miksis was involved in the initial stages.
Construction began with schematic designs in 2015, moving through phases of development and overcoming cost escalations. The facility incorporates diverse amenities such as two swimming pools, a large gym, a fitness floor, a daycare center, a teaching kitchen, community rooms, and an outdoor studio. Notable design elements include reclaimed wood accents, polished concrete floors, and expansive glass windows offering views of Spencer Butte. Local artists contributed murals, including a two-story aquatic center mural by a YMCA member who had painted for the old facility.
Designed to meet evolving community needs, the YMCA exceeded enrollment projections, reaching membership milestones years ahead of schedule. A true testament of deChase values to meet the needs of communities we serve: market research initially anticipated 8,000-9,000 household memberships by 2026, but this was achieved in 2024. Group fitness classes, initially projected to grow slowly, now operate with waitlists, highlighting strong community demand.
The facility also addresses social isolation through intentional spaces such as a community room connected to a teaching kitchen, promoting gatherings, nutrition education, and social interaction. The design ensures accessibility and flexibility to adapt to future trends and programs.
Delivered on time and on budget, the new YMCA represents a high-quality, community-centered facility fulfilling a broad range of recreational, social, and educational needs. The project culminated in a groundbreaking ceremony, a grand opening celebration, and widespread acclaim as a transformative addition to Eugene. This legacy project underscores the community's trust and the YMCA's commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
