YW-YWHA of Raritan Valley to close HP site June 29

By Dan Newman
Special to The Jewish State

Since 1955, the YW-YWHA of Raritan Valley has been a landmark in Highland Park on South Adelaide Avenue.

A majority of that time, Cynthia Boda has been involved at various levels, acting as a member, a volunteer, and currently, as the Director of Fitness, a position which allows her to mingle with many.

Unfortunately for her and so many others in the community, the party is only days away from breaking up. On June 29, the facility will close its doors after years of litigation and trying to find a way to stay put.

"This place functioned like a local barbershop in that it was a perfect spot for people to congregate and have a good time," Boda said. "I feel like I grow up here, in a sense, and it's like a family tragedy for us."

The problems for the facility originated a few years ago as the building started to break down due to age.

"The roof was leaking, the pool had cracks, the mechanical systems were continually breaking down," said YW-YWHA of Raritan Valley president Jeff Urbach said. "The repairs were astronomical."

With the Y's fundraising capacity for a new building at $2 million, and construction estimates topping $7 million, it was obvious that the organization needed a development partner. In 2002, the Board of Directors decided to initiate a plan to replace the archaic building. The following year, Highland Cliffs LLC was selected as the developer and along with the Y, entered into a joint venture to build a three-story, 40,000 square-foot facility and private residences.

After three years of planning and preparing for construction, the Highland Park Planning Board introduced an ordinance that would have allowed for alternative building options at the property, including construction of a new Y to be built along with residential units, which was not favorable in the eyes of local residents.

"In the end, the Planning Board didn't want to amend the master plan, and after all this time with the litigation, the Y just gave up," Boda said. "The building is a money pit and there was only so long you could try and save it."

Boda is a personal trainer who works with many seniors and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. With the close of the location though, Boda said that approximately 20 people will be out of work, all of whom she felt were qualified in their positions.

"I've got members who are very upset that the Highland Park location is closing," Boda said. "They grew accustomed to this place."

Boda did say that day camp and senior programs will continue to meet in East Brunswick at 75 Dutch Road, on land that is owned by the Y. Still, it's just not going to be the same, she said.

"It's a difficult and painful decision, but it's the responsible thing to do," Urbach said. "We are very sad and disappointed to be leaving our home of 52 years, but we are extremely proud of our legacy in Highland Park."