YMCA of the Triangle is looking for contributions for a nostalgia trip in conjuction with the Lakewood Y's reopening in January.
Old photos, old Y-related trophies and gym clothes and personal memories are being sought – physical items to be displayed at the Lakewood Y, the memories on the Durham Y's website, Facebook page and Twitter.
“It’s important to pay homage to the past, and our members are such a large part of
that. They kept the spirit of the Lakewood Y alive even after our doors closed,” Lakewood Director Brad Myers said in a prepared statement.
For information on making a contribution, write MyLakewoodY@YMCATriangle.org.
The 1966 facility was closed in August 2009 for major renovations after the YMCA sold it to Durham Public Schools. The Y is leasing back 18,000 square feet, while the Lakewood Montessori Middle School occupies the rest of the 7,350-square foot building.
In 2007, the Triangle YMCA planned to close the branch on Chapel Hill Road due to its low membership and deteriorated condition. Plans changed, though, after Y members and nearby neighborhood associations organized to protest and seek alternatives to preserve the building.
After a year of citizen meetings and official negotiations, Durham County agreed to buy the building and its 7.4 acres for $250,000, then give it a makeover costing around $8 million.
