YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Announces Facility Transition for Rockbridge Area YMCA
LEXINGTON, VA (June 16, 2026) —The YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge announced today that the Rockbridge Area YMCA will relocate to a newly renovated facility in Stonewall Square Shopping Center in December 2026, creating an updated YMCA experience designed to support continued growth and community needs in Rockbridge County.
As part of that long-term effort, the Rockbridge Area YMCA will relocate to Stonewall Square Shopping Center to ensure programs and services continue without interruption while development for a future facility moves forward.
“This is a really exciting step for the Rockbridge Area YMCA, “ said Mark Johnson, president and CEO of the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge.“We’re creating a refreshed space that allows us to continue building momentum, continue serving families while growing our impact in the community. This move is about investing in what members need right now while also planning responsibly for the future.”
Transition to Stonewall Square in December 2026
The Rockbridge Area YMCA will officially relocate to the Stonewall Square Shopping Center in December 2026. YMCA leaders say the updated 8,500 square-foot facility will allow members to continue enjoying wellness programming, group exercise classes, Stay & Play childcare services and 24-hour access throughout the transition.
Members are able shape amenities provided in the new space through surveys and feedback opportunities.
“We want this space to reflect what our members value most,” said Chad Whitmer, Rockbridge Area YMCA branch executive. “We’re investing in upgrades and creating a YMCA experience that continues to feel welcoming and community-driven from day one.”
Whitmer emphasized that the move represents continued growth and investment in the Rockbridge community.
“The YMCA has been part of this community for decades, and that commitment is not changing,” Whitmer said. “This move allows us to keep moving forward while creating new opportunities for the future.”
Looking Ahead
Alongside the Stonewall Square transition, the YMCA continues planning for a future expanded Rockbridge Area YMCA facility designed to meet growing community needs over time.
Early planning efforts are already underway, including a feasibility study completed in 2025, a capital campaign, and site exploration for a future facility that would significantly expand wellness, youth development and community programming opportunities in Rockbridge County.
Rob Hughes, chair of the Rockbridge Area YMCA Board of Directors, said the board fully supports both the transition to Stonewall Square and the YMCA’s broader long-term vision.
“We’re proud of what the YMCA already means to this community, and we believe this next chapter creates real opportunity to build on that foundation,” Hughes said.
As planning efforts continue, the YMCA has been working closely with community leaders and supporters to better understand the needs and opportunities that exist across Rockbridge County. Whitmer said the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“People have been asking for years when Rockbridge will have a YMCA with the space and amenities you see in other communities,” Whitmer said. “We’re finally in a position to pursue that goal in a serious way. The temporary move is an important step, but what’s really exciting is what it leads to.”
Additional updates, member communications and project information will be shared as planning progresses.
To keep up with the latest, visit: https://ymcavbr.org/
About the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge
The YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge is a leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA serves thousands of individuals and families across the Roanoke, Salem, Botetourt and Rockbridge communities through programs focused on wellness, childcare, youth development and community support.
About the Rockbridge Area YMCA
The Rockbridge Area YMCA focuses on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility in its mission throughout the Lexington City and Rockbridge County area. The YMCA Early Learning Center offers full-time care for preschoolers, providing a safe and welcoming environment that focuses on developing essential physical, cognitive, social, and emotional skills through creative play and hands-on experiences.