(Atlantic) Vision Atlantic representatives appeared before the Atlantic City Council on Wednesday evening to request financial support for the YMCA Expansion project.
In 2022, the Atlantic City Council approved the purchase of 41.5 acres of farmland for housing development. The land is situated along and north of 22nd Street, east of Olive Street, and south of the High School. The city acquired the property for $20,000 per acre, totaling $830,000.
In May 2024, the City Council voted to transfer the 41.54 acres to Vision Atlantic, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, for $1.00. This transfer is part of the organization’s ambitious $75 million Economic Development Project, which includes the farmland within the southeast Urban Renewal District.
Vision Atlantic has identified three key priorities for strengthening and sustaining the community: expanding housing, improving childcare facilities, and enhancing local amenities. Through collaboration with community stakeholders, generous donors, and foundational support, the organization plans to invest approximately $75.5 million into these initiatives. This includes:
- $48 million for new housing development
- $11.5 million for a state-of-the-art childcare center
- $16 million for expanding the current YMCA facility
The Charles E. Lakin Foundation has pledged $8.6 million toward the childcare center and YMCA expansion. Additionally, the Lakin Foundation’s $23 million commitment is expected to accelerate new housing developments.
Vision Atlantic Committee member Christina Bateman opened the discussion by expressing gratitude for the city’s land donation to support the housing project. She then formally requested the City Council to contribute $6.7 million toward the YMCA expansion, which is 38 percent of the $16.5 million construction cost for the YMCA expansion project, with an initial funding request of $2.5 million in the 2026 budget. After that, Bateman says the committee would discuss the remaining $3.77 million.
Dan Haynes, Executive Director of the Nishna Valley Family YMCA, noted that the former City Council contributed 38% of the construction costs for the existing YMCA facility. He stated that the Lakin Foundation has committed $6.78 million to the YMCA expansion project. However, Haynes emphasized that the community risks losing the Lakin Foundation’s grant if Vision Atlantic fails to secure 80% of the necessary funding by the end of the year.
During the discussion, Bateman mentioned that 56 percent of the existing Atlantic YMCA membership comes from people outside the Atlantic.
Atlantic City Councilman Mike McDermott asked Atlantic City Administrator John Lund about funding options. Lund says it will work and will not affect the taxpayer.
Atlantic Mayor Grace Garrett polled the City Council in response to their consensus about the city’s $2.5 million donation. Most of the council agreed to decide following next week’s City Council budget workshop.
Meanwhile, the proposed plan for Atlantic’s state-of-the-art YMCA includes a $16 million renovation featuring a front expansion of the facility. The project would consist of an outdoor community recreation and event space for fitness and gatherings in all weather conditions—an indoor soft-play area offering a safe and engaging environment for group activities. An expanded fitness floor provides 24-hour access, with key fob entry available after hours. A new children’s museum brings a big-city experience to the community, combining education and fun. A STEAM room and E-Sports room also create a dedicated space for youth of all ages to connect and engage. The plan also includes a senior social and activity area, promoting fitness and helping to combat social isolation among older adults.
