NEWBURGH – The Greater Newburgh YMCA moved out Newburgh in 1997, operating as a “Y Without Walls” and now, the organization is moving back in and expanding its territory and services.

The Y is presently undergoing a major renovation project at 377 Broadway to convert a 10,000 SF space into offices, a wellness center and other facilities.

Senator William Larkin touted the expanded Y services. “I foresee with the help of the state with some money, that we can move this on so that young people will know there is always a safe place,” he said at a ceremony Thursday.

Mayor Nicholas Valentine credited Y management for the expansion. “We look to, literally, the leadership of the Y that does it each and every day, that can also maximize the amount of money that is out there to get the most amount for the money that is available,” he said.

Y President Trish Fisher announced the Greater Newburgh Y is now expanding its services throughout Dutchess Count since that Y closed last June.

They have already begun some services in Southern Dutchess, with a “slew of programs planned,” said Newburgh Y board Vice Chairman Ralph Mills.