FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

West Construction Company Breaks Ground on Islands Family YMCA Renovation

SAVANNAH, GA – November 11, 2025 – West Construction Company, a proud construction partner with a proven track record of delivering high-quality YMCA facilities throughout Coastal Georgia, officially kicked off a major renovation and modernization project for the Islands Family YMCA branch on November 6, 2025.

In a symbolic departure from traditional groundbreaking ceremonies, West Construction President Matt West joined community leaders in wielding sledgehammers to demolish a section of wall at the facility located at 66 Johnny Mercer Blvd., marking the beginning of this transformative construction project.

This is the third YMCA project in the region, having previously completed the West Chatham YMCA renovation in 2023 and the YMCA Habersham Trail in 2018. Each project has strengthened the commitment to building facilities that serve as vital hubs for healthy living and community connection.

The comprehensive renovation project, designed by Felder & Associates, will add 3,000 square feet of space and deliver a complete interior modernization to meet the evolving needs of the Islands community.

Key features of the renovation include:

• Optim Ortho Space: A dedicated 3,000-square-foot Rehab Center staffed with rehabilitation specialists
• Enhanced Wellness: New dedicated studios for yoga and cycling, along with a post-workout recovery room
• Modern Accessibility: Modernized locker rooms and future 24-hour fitness center access options
• Youth Engagement: Significantly expanded areas for children and teens, including an enlarged Child Watch area and a cutting-edge Teen Tech Lab
• Community Connection: A reimagined, welcoming lobby designed to foster relaxation and social interaction

Participating in the ceremonial wall demolition were Michael Butler, CEO of Optim Orthopedics; Brian Felder, President of Felder & Associates; Joel Smoker, President/CEO of YMCA of Coastal Georgia; Pat Farrell, Chatham County Commissioner of District 4; Houstoun Demere, Board Chair of Corporate Board of Directors; and Matt West, President of West Construction Company.

With construction now officially underway, West Construction looks forward to delivering a modernized, state-of-the-art community wellness center that will serve the Islands area for generations to come.