Whatcom Family YMCA will permanently close its Ferndale doors on Monday

The YMCA building in Ferndale will permanently close its doors on Monday after the building’s lease was not renewed, according to the Whatcom Family YMCA.

The building at 5610 Barrett Road was recently acquired by KoenLock LLC and The Locker Room, who informed the YMCA that its lease for the building was not being renewed, according to the news release.

With the coronavirus pandemic forcing places to close, the YMCA notice said it was “not financially viable or prudent to reopen given the time remaining on their lease.”

“While we are disheartened by this closure, we are proud of all we have accomplished in the 30 years we have been here,” Whatcom Family YMCA CEO Bill Ziels said. “The Y would like to thank Ferndale for its dedicated staff, members, quality programming, and annual support. Together, we have nurtured the potential of children, enhanced health, and provided vital services to the community.”

The building had been used by the YMCA since 1990, but they have been a part of the community for the last century. And while the building may be closing, Ziels said they are committed to serving the county with or without a building.

“Though fitness centers have historically been the face of the YMCA, we can make a positive impact without a specific building or set of walls,” Ziels said. “Equipped with people and passion, the Y will explore all options to offer programs again safely when the time is right.”

This story was originally published June 1, 2020 at 5:00 AM.