The Fry Family YMCA opposes the District’s proposal to build an approximate $120 million indoor recreation and three-pool complex at Frontier Park in South Naperville, practically next door to two facilities that offer many of the same services, including indoor aquatics. The Fry YMCA operates a XX,XXX square foot facility with a 25-yard lap pool 3,800 feet away from the proposed facility, while a private operator is constructing a new facility with pools approximately 4,100 feet from the proposed facility. Geographically concentrating similar facilities in south Naperville will not ease community concerns regarding closures of facilities in central or north Naperville.
Every residence in Naperville will have to financially support the $120 million indoor recreation and three-pool facility, regardless of their use or non-use of the recreation center and its programming. The average listing price for a home in Naperville is currently $600,000, and the District estimates this average homeowner would pay more than $200 annually for the next 20 years to pay off the debt.
The Park District FAQ website does not share an estimated cost for membership. However, during outreach meetings, District staff have suggested a fee-based membership that will cost between $70 and $80 per month. Combing taxes and membership fees, the average family owning a $600,000 home in Naperville would pay between $860 and $1,200 annually for this amenity, which is a significant cost.
The Fry YMCA is aware of the pressures and operating challenges programming and operating indoor recreation facilities and aquatic facilities and recognizes its facility closures have led to service gaps in the community. However, this experience and risk of ongoing financial subsidies is a concern of the Advisory Board. According to District estimates, the facility is projected to lose $1.5 million initially, with ongoing subsidies of up to $450,000 annually for aquatic operations.
