Updated: October 23, 2025
Yesterday, the YMCA of Central Kentucky Board of Directors voted to move forward with the sale of its High Street property in its entirety to Florida-based developer Tramell Webb Partners, Inc. The decision follows a September 24 vote authorizing YMCA leadership to sign a contract with the developer and evaluate two options:
stay on the property and partner with Tramell Webb Partners, Inc. to rebuild a new YMCA alongside student housing, or
sell the property outright and seek a new downtown location.
With this week’s action, the board selected the second option, confirming the sale of the High Street property in full and initiating the process to identify future opportunities for the Y’s downtown presence and long-term growth.
The High Street YMCA is expected to remain open through at least March 2026. As the Y prepares for what's next, the YMCA is:
Continuing to operate current programs and services at High Street while developing a transition plan to ensure continuity for High Street members after the building closes.
Establishing an ad hoc committee of the board of directors to evaluate future opportunities for a new downtown facility.
Retaining Al Isaac, president and founder of NAI Isaac Commercial Properties, to serve in a consulting role and provide guidance throughout the process.
We will keep members and the community informed as plans develop and provide opportunities for engagement along the way. Please check our website for ongoing updates. You can also view our FAQs below.
The YMCA board determined that rebuilding on the current site would limit growth opportunities. A new location could allow for better accessibility, parking, and space to expand the Y’s impact in Lexington.
The building will be razed on a TBD date in 2026 with new construction of student housing to begin shortly thereafter.
The YMCA Board of Directors will form an ad hoc committee to explore and evaluate opportunities which include the possibility of a new downtown Y. Additionally, the Y has retained the services of Al Isaac, president and founder of NAI Isaac Properties, to serve in a consulting role and provide guidance throughout the process.
There is no hard and fast timeline as the Y thoughtfully and strategically explores and evaluates potential locations that best fit the needs of its membership and the community.
Our transition plan will be communicated to High Street members no later than Dec. 1, 2025. The plan will be focused on keeping groups together. We’ll also be hosting open houses at our three Lexington YMCA locations to welcome High Street members.
The Y is taking steps to preserve the history, stories, and memorabilia that celebrate the High Street YMCA’s impact on our community over the last six decades. We want this to be a shared journey - an opportunity for members, past and present, to reflect, contribute, and celebrate together. In the coming months, we’ll share ways you can be part of honoring the memories, milestones, and spirit that have made the High Street Y such a special place.
Our planning process will include opportunities for members and community engagement. You can visit our website for ongoing updates.