PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — There was a big celebration Wednesday in the Hill District as community leaders and residents gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of a brand new YMCA.

The 43,000 square-foot facility, which has been several years in the making, is located on Centre Avenue.

The new YMCA is named after community activist Thelma Lovette. The Olympic Torch she once carried is on display in the building.

In a press release, Aaron Gibson, the executive director of the facility, said: “The Centre Avenue building is steeped in the rich history of the Hill District. The Thelma Lovette Y helps us continue that history in addition to bringing brand new technology and facilities to the community.”

The state-of-the-art facility is expected to open a wide range of opportunity for the area and there were plenty of local leaders on hand for the opening, including Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.

There was plenty of activities for the grand opening, including facility tours, class demonstrations and giveaways.

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