DOWNTOWN Y TO MOVE TO NEW HOME AT VICTORIA’S BAY CENTRE

May 6, 2025 – The YMCA YWCA of Vancouver Island announced today that the Downtown Y will be moving to a vibrant new location on the top floor of the Bay Centre in downtown Victoria. The move will take place in early 2026 or sooner.

“The Downtown Y has always been defined by the thousands of people we serve every day, and the volunteers and staff who serve them. This opportunity provides us an amazing new space to continue coming together right in the heart of the City,” Said Derek Gent YMCA YWCA of Vancouver Island CEO.

The 20,000 sq. ft. space was previously occupied by Goodlife Fitness and will be re-purposed to create a Downtown Y that will provide programs and activities that will continue to improve the health and well-being of Y members and the community.

“Our Y will continue to support healthy people coming together to strengthen our community in Victoria’s Downtown. We offer an essential “third space”, outside home or work, as a local charity with a 150 year track record here,” added Gent.

The YMCA YWCA licensed childcare will remain at 851 Broughton Street until a new location is found.

The new location will not have a pool, gymnasium or racquet courts, but expects to offer the majority of currently available programs, classes and equipment, including drop-off childminding services for members. The Y will be working with businesses and organizations, and with the City of Victoria to provide alternative services at other locations. All members of the YMCA YWCA of Vancouver Island can continue to access the Westhills Y in Langford, including the exceptional aquatic facilities.

Members will be able to take advantage of the many services at the Bay Centre, including free parking while they visit the Y. “We are thrilled to welcome a beloved community pillar – an organization that has nurtured Greater Victoria for so many years. This will help create a vibrant hub on the fourth level that will boost the health and wellness of our employees, tenants and Downtown,” said Bay Centre General Manager, Darlene Hollstein.

In the coming months, Y members will be invited to visit the new space as renovations are being completed.

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Media enquiries: Sandra Hudson sandra@sandrahudsoncomm.com 250-216-1380