• Courtesy of GBYMCA
• A rendering of the new YMCA at 298 College Street in Burlington

The new year brings a new home for the Greater Burlington YMCA. The modern, light-filled 50,000-square-foot facility will open at 298 College Street on January 1. The new location is just 150 steps from the current Y, a 1934 red brick structure at 266 College Street that GBYMCA director of communications Doug Bishop described as "a rabbit warren" of rooms and stairs, where few spaces serve their original purpose. The new building, which cost $28 million and took more than a year to build, will offer a host of new perks for families. Kids can enjoy a new splash pad featuring interactive water features. A gender-neutral changing room with six suites that each include a shower, toilet and changing area will offer a convenient option for families. The Y will have a designated wing for its childcare program and plans to add 50 infant and toddler childcare slots through the winter and spring. A drop-in childcare area will provide a spot for members to leave their little ones for up to two hours while they work out. Members will have access to 47 free, on-site parking spots. To make the facility more accessible to the community, membership rates will drop. A two-adult family membership will decrease from $98 to $84 per month, with scholarships available for those who demonstrate need.