CYC 1948-Present

 

    • Opened in 1948 and served as a major recreation agency for the City of Wilkes-Barre and neighboring communities
    • Facility originally consisted of multi-purpose room, a small gymnasium and bowling alley
    • Expanded in 1959 with the addition of a new gymnasium with seating for 600 and a swimming pool
    • Was devastated in 1972 by the Agnes flood with the destruction of the gymnasium and swimming pool however became the first agency to open its doors following the disaster
    • Acquired land adjacent to the facility in 1979 which was developed into outdoor tennis/basketball courts and a playground
    • Full-service childcare center was established in 1989
    • In 1998, the CYC celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a dinner attended by over 1,200 people.
    • The Strategic Planning Committee of the Board of Directors discussed and recommended a facility renovation and expansion plan in late 1998
    • Capital Campaign Committee was formed and charged with raising $4.1 million to fund renovation/expansion program which consisted of a replacing the HVAC System, construction of the Aquatic Center, convert existing pool into a second gymnasium and construct a park/outdoor recreation area
    • The Sallie Mae Aquatic & Educational Center opened in 2003 and immediately attracted age group, high school, and college swim championships
    • The Parente Family Park opened in 2006