2025 Midwest Best Projects
Best Specialty Construction: Hammond Family YMCA
Hammond Family YMCA
Hammond Ind.
BEST PROJECT
Submitted by Tonn and Blank Construction
Owner: Crossroads YMCA
Lead Design Firm: Schaefer Architecture
General Contractor: Tonn and Blank Construction
Built on the site of a long vacant mall, the 120,000-sq-ft YMCA is a health, wellness and recreation hub in Hammond, Ind. The facility features pools, a wellness center, indoor track, studios and community spaces—serving 50,000 visitors annually.
With deep community roots, the YMCA needed to deliver a space that honored its legacy while embracing innovation. Key achievements included the completion of concrete pool tanks, structural steel erection, roofing, interior framing and utilities installation.
Photo by Mirage Studios
The final stages of the project involved flooring, casework, lighting, exterior paving and landscaping. The new structure is expected to revitalize the neighborhood and provide a community gathering spot.
Photo by Mirage Studios
The team addressed various construction challenges including tight downtown logistics and ensuring uninterrupted services during the transition.
There were no recordable injuries in 2024, thanks to innovative initiatives like using QR codes for hazard reporting and daily huddles.
