After 30 years, Southeast Columbus YMCA closes amid sustainability concerns

The Jerry L. Garver YMCA, a longtime community fixture in southeast Columbus, officially closed its doors on May 30 after serving residents for three decades.

The closure follows a decision announced earlier this year by the YMCA of Central Ohio, which cited facility limitations, declining usage and operational challenges as factors in determining that the location could no longer be sustainably operated. The organization said the move is part of a broader long-term strategy aimed at expanding its reach across Central Ohio and serving more than 500,000 people annually by 2035.

In a statement provided to 614Now, the YMCA said it has a responsibility to continually evaluate its facilities and resources to ensure long-term sustainability and community impact.

“We recognize how deeply the Jerry L. Garver YMCA has mattered to the community, and we understand that the decision to close the facility on May 30 was difficult for many,” the statement said.

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According to the YMCA, members, preschool participants and staff affected by the closure have transitioned to neighboring YMCA locations. While the building itself has closed, the organization said it will continue serving the area through social services, day camp programming and Head Start initiatives.

The closure sparked concern among some residents when it was announced earlier this year, with community members telling NBC4 that the facility played an important role in the neighborhood and that they wished they had received more information about the decision-making process.

As part of the transition, the YMCA of Central Ohio agreed to sell the property to the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority. While plans remain in the early stages, CMHA intends to develop housing on the site. The Jerry L. Garver YMCA was located at 1827 Livingston Ave., and had served the southeast side of Columbus since 1996.

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