The Park Slope Armory won’t open until January, 2009 — 10 months after the gorgeously restored building was supposed to be operating.
The city held a ribbon cutting in February when it selected the Prospect Park YMCA to operate the Armory. At the time, officials said that a final contract would be signed quickly so that Y’s team could begin planning programs.
But the contract remains unsigned. “Our plan is to … have our full slate of programming by early 2009,” said YMCA Executive Director Sean Andrews. “[We will] use the summer through the fall to get a handle on what the community wants to see in there, and then fully staff it for 2009.”
The city and the Y say they are negotiating only the final issues, including maintenance and operations.
The $16-million athletic center spans nearly an entire block between 14th and 15th streets and Seventh and Eighth avenues. The facility will primarily be used for track-and-field events, soccer, basketball and weight training. Andrews has said the Y will also host teen and after-school activities, a camp and public meetings.
The city will continue to operate a 70-bed women’s shelter there. And nearby schools will use the facility. The Y will generate revenue through donations, sponsorships, events, and membership fees.
When it opens, that is.
