Cranford YMCA Opens to Public

CRANFORD -- The new fitness and indoor pool facility opened Thursday, February 15. The Cranford YMCA, located at 401 Centennial Avenue, is the result of a partnership between the Westfield Area YMCA and the Township of Cranford.

“The partnership between the Westfield Y and the Township of Cranford has been beneficial for the Centennial Avenue facility and the community. Monetarily, we couldn’t have invested $1.5 million on the facility. The combination and knowledge of the YMCA and the Township employees will produce a great program for the residents,” Deputy Mayor and Commissioner of Public Affairs Terrence Curran said.

Members will find the indoor facility has a complete refresh of the interior spaces. The fitness center has an expanded footprint, with an all new weight room and exercise facility, containing over 50 pieces of cutting-edge cardio/strength equipment, pneumatic Keiser fitness machines, a full array of free weights, a TRX system, and a stretching area. New rubber flooring, paint and glass walls round out the interior improvements. The cardio equipment, including treadmills, recumbent and upright bicycles, ellipticals and stair climber, each contain their own television screens offering simulated experiences, access to free live television and music, access to your own television app subscriptions, and Apple Watch and Samsung Watch compatibility. The fitness center is open to members ages 15 and older.

Members of all ages can enjoy the upgraded indoor pool. The indoor pool improvements include new filtration, a chemical feed system, a heat exchanger, a pump, and an ultraviolet system.

“The improvements were sorely needed. It’s a beautiful new facility,” said Parks and Recreation Director Steve Robertazzi. “If you are looking for a place for swimming and to work out, come to the Cranford YMCA.”

Currently in progress is a multipurpose space (to be completed by late February) and renovated main locker rooms (to be completed by late March). New locker rooms will include individual shower stalls/changing areas with accessibility improvements. Temporary bathroom facilities are open until the new locker rooms are complete. The multipurpose room is a flex space that can be used for group and personal fitness programs, day camp, birthday parties, and more programs.

“The Cranford Pool & Fitness Center has had several renovations over my 40 years of employment there, keeping up with exercise and recreational trends. This is the most extensive yet, involving infrastructural needs,” said Sally Kleeman, Swim Pool Advisory Board member.

“We are all used to referring to the facility as ‘the pool,’ but it will be so much more than that now. The upgrades to the fitness center are noteworthy (and I say that after managing it for 11 years), bringing it up to modern standards while remaining accessible to seniors, beginners, and those who may be continuing rehab, three populations who are dear to my heart. And, important for parents, childcare facilities are also undergoing major improvements,” Ms. Kleeman continued.

Memberships are open to Cranford and area residents. Cranford residents receive discounted membership rates. Discounted rates are also available for teens and seniors. To register, go to https://westfieldynj.org/programs/cranford-ymca/, call the Cranford YMCA at (908) 709-7260, or register in person at 401 Centennial Avenue, Cranford, N.J.

The Cranford YMCA regular hours of operation are as follows:

• Monday-Friday: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• Saturday: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Sunday: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The indoor pool is open for lap and family swimming. The first session for aquatic programs will begin Sunday, March 3, and end April 20.

“I am looking forward to seeing ‘facility friends’ again, and I hope to see it grow to its former popularity once more,” Ms. Kleeman concluded.

Videos documenting the facility improvements can be seen by visiting the TV-35 YouTube Channel, @CranfordTV35.