Worcester, MA – After a fast-paced 14-week construction schedule, Timberline is proud to announce the opening of YMCA Greendale’s Youth Innovation & Learning Development Hub, now ready to serve the local Worcester community. The vibrant 4,000 SF space is designed to inspire learning, growth and social connections for children and teens up to age 18. The newly transformed center offers a safe and welcoming environment that fosters recreational activities, educational exploration and personal development.

STEAM Lab ready for hands-on learning

“This hub is more than just a physical space,” said Christina Puleo, Senior Executive Director of the YMCA Greendale Family Branch. “It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared vision of creating a brighter future for our children. We’re grateful to Timberline for their expertise and dedication to ensuring our youth have a communal space to thrive in for years to come.”

Timberline’s in-house architectural design and construction teams collaborated with the YMCA to reimagine the existing youth center into a dynamic hub that meets the evolving needs of the Worcester community. “We were honored to partner with the YMCA to bring this project to life,” said Steven A. Wassersug, President of Timberline Construction. “I am proud of our group coming together, combining construction and innovative design solutions to make a positive impact on many young lives.” Key features of the new center include:

  • Gross Motor Skill Space: A large, open area for free play, featuring a ninja gym and a sectioned-off space with climbing equipment for infants and younger children.
  • STEAM Lab: A classroom-style space designed for schoolwork, projects and experiments, encouraging creativity and hands-on learning.
  • Teen Center: A dedicated space for teens with a tech bar, social zones and gaming area.

    Kids playing on the ninja gym at ribbon cutting ceremony

The hub’s design reflects a vibrant, outdoor-inspired aesthetic with bright colors, painted mountain murals and custom tree details that encourage creativity. These thoughtful elements align with the program’s mission to nurture growth, confidence and innovation in local youth.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony held on January 14 celebrated the opening of the hub with a state dedication, bringing together donors, community members and excited young attendees. The event featured heartfelt speeches from YMCA leadership and allowed individuals of all ages to explore the new spaces.

Timberline’s continued support of and work on the Youth Innovation & Learning Development Hub underscores its commitment to fostering community growth through thoughtful design and construction. This project represents a significant step forward in advancing the educational and social development of Worcester’s youth.