WPHF Receives Support for Project Wellness

Community support for Project Wellness, the unique health and wellness center proposed to provide a new home for the aging Peggy & Philip B. Crosby Wellness Center YMCA in Winter Park, continues to pour in to the Winter Park Health Foundation (WPHF).  Early in September, following many years of research and planning, WPHF submitted its application to the City of Winter Park to proceed with Project Wellness.

During September and October, WPHF leaders met with over 500 members of the Crosby Wellness Center YMCA, nearby business and residential neighbors, and community leaders to share details about the project.  Aside from understandable concerns from some members about where they will exercise while the new facility is under construction, the feedback has been very positive.  YMCA leaders have promised there will be many options available to members during the transition.

Late October, the official approval process began with the City of Winter Park.  At its October 27 meeting, the City’s Planning & Zoning Board reviewed and discussed the WPHF submittal for Project Wellness.  Patty Maddox, President & CEO of Winter Park Health Foundation, presented the goals and benefits of Project Wellness.  Turan Duda, FAIA, Design Partner for Duda|Paine Architects, shared his vision for the facility’s design, including the gardens, walking paths, and special amenities surrounding it.  The project received unanimous approval from the Planning & Zoning Board.  Each board member spoke of the benefits of the facility and expressed their clear understanding of the proposed architecture and design elements.

The next step in the City approval process for Project Wellness comes Monday, November 23 when the Winter Park City Commission is scheduled to review and consider the application from WPHF during its regularly scheduled meeting.   Commission agendas and meeting information can be found at https://cityofwinterpark.org/government/city-commission/ As of November 10, the agenda for the November 23 meeting had not been posted.

“We are grateful for the overwhelming support we are receiving related to Project Wellness, said Ms. Maddox. Each time we share our plans it becomes even clearer how much our community needs and wants a place where residents can easily access fitness, wellness and medical services in one convenient location.”

To learn more about Project Wellness, please go to www.wphf.org/project-wellness or call the Winter Park Health Foundation at 407-644-2300.  You can also stay updated by connecting with WPHF on Facebook and Twitter.