In a moment South Dallas has been eagerly anticipating, the Park South YMCA officially reopened its doors at 6:00 AM yesterday—and, in true neighborhood fashion, the community showed up without hesitation. As the sun rose, Park South Y members were already lining the walkways, stepping into the new facility like they never missed a beat. There was no grand pause, no need for coaxing; this community knows its value, and they were ready to return to it.
The new space is bright, modern, and outfitted with upgraded fitness areas, group studios, a sleek pool, and childcare rooms—but the real story wasn’t in the renovations. It was in the people. “This is incredible,” said Loletha Horton, Park South YMCA Board President and District Executive Director.
It’s one thing to talk about it, to see the process. But now—we’re ready to let the community in!” And that they did. By 6:15 AM, the cardio equipment was buzzing, yoga mats were unrolled, and old friends were reconnecting in freshly painted halls.
Still, YMCA leaders want the public to know: the work is far from over. Even as the facility reopens, Park South is calling on the community to help build something even more meaningful—a commemorative history wall. Designed to honor the decades of impact and memory-making this YMCA has cultivated, the wall will feature photos, artifacts, and stories from the people who made it all possible. “This building may be new,” said Horton, “but the soul of it is made of stories.”
If you or your family have anything—from photos and flyers to old uniforms or trophies—the Park South YMCA is asking you to bring those pieces of history forward. The vision is to build a living archive that celebrates Park South’s role in shaping generations.
Adding to the excitement, Dr. Jasmine Collier, Board Chair of the Park South YMCA, announced via LinkedIn last week that the official ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Monday, June 24 at 10:00 AM. “When I was asked to serve as board chair 3 years ago, my vision was for this Y to no longer be a hidden gem” she posted, inviting the public to witness a new chapter in a historic journey.
With summer programming now in full swing, including group classes, swim lessons, family events, and wellness programs, the re-opening feels like both a revival and a promise. One thing is clear: the new Park South YMCA may be rebuilt, but it’s the legacy of the neighborhood—and the people who showed up at 6AM sharp—that will carry it forward.
To contribute to the history wall or learn more about membership and events, stop by the front desk or email parksouth@ymcadallas.org.