Dear editor,
As medical studies find a continued decline in the overall health and well-being of Americans, The Landing counters the national decline by providing a positive, community-oriented center for Wausau’s 55-plus population to gather. This year, we are renewing our mission to create a movement to empower older adults, provide a safe place where people 55-plus feel welcomed and inspired, and most of all, create a happier, healthier and more connected community in the Wausau region.
In a strong and unique partnership with the Woodson YMCA, The Landing first opened its doors in 2019, the YMCA’s membership in the 55-and-older age group has more than doubled to nearly 4,000 members registered for 215 programs last year. As enrollment increases and participation rapidly rises, we know that in order to continue to meet the needs of Wausau’s growing 55-plus population, we must consider the opportunity ahead to expand our current campus and better serve our community.
Accordingly, we researched and developed a Strategic Plan for The Landing to continue meeting the community’s needs. We are undergoing a significant renovation – privately funded – that will add more space for programming and social activity, modernize our kitchen, relocate the entry to the building, and increase parking which is currently at or near max capacity.
The proposed development consists of the removal of the existing building on site, which we own and is currently vacant, and the construction of a parking lot to serve the Woodson YMCA and the relocated entry to The Landing. It allocates more off-street parking and funnels pedestrian foot traffic to a single crossing point on Fourth Street, ensuring safety for our most vulnerable members. With a planned pervious/greenspace area making up 25 percent of the overall parcel, esthetics and overall environmental design measures are to be taken to ensure the planned development aligns with the intent of the City of Wausau’s PUD district guidelines.
We look forward to continuing to work with the city of Wausau to ensure we serve the community and meet the needs of Wausau’s growing 55-plus population.
Julie Streufert, executive director, The Landing at the Woodson YMCA
Editor’s note: Wausau Pilot & Review gladly publishes commentary from readers, residents and candidates for local offices. The views of readers and columnists are independent of this newspaper and do not necessarily reflect the views of Wausau Pilot & Review. To submit, email [email protected] or mail to 500 N. Third St., Suite 208-8, Wausau, Wis. 54403.
