NORTHAMPTON — Plans to build an open-air gymnasium, or “airnasium,” are underway at the Hampshire Regional YMCA. The $1.5 million project will create an open pavilion and outdoor container gym with exercise equipment stored inside garage doors.

The project is inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted the YMCA to hold classes in the parking lot as an alternative to indoor group exercise. As YMCA leaders considered outdoor expansion ideas for their 4,500 members, they stumbled upon the idea of an “airnasium” which is already prevalent in southern areas of the country.

“Providing a space where people can come and be healthy in a safe and fun space is definitely a reflection of the community,” said Julie Bianco, CEO of the YMCA. “We’re really here to bring people together.”

Bianco said the project is in its “quiet but not silent” campaign phase where leaders seek corporate sponsorships. So far, the project has received $401,000 in funding, including $100,000 from Florence Bank, $50,000 from PeoplesBank and $40,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds from the city of Northampton.

The YMCA worked with Berkshire Design Group to research and create the project design, and engaged Keiter Corporation as the contractor.

The 2,250-square-foot outdoor exercise space, which will be located near the existing playground where picnic tables sit now, will enter its first phase of construction this spring. It will involve pouring the floor of the pavilion pad and constructing the container gym. Plans also call for permanent shade sails that can be raised or lowered to provide cover from the weather.

Future phases will include updating existing outdoor courts, installing new fencing and lighting, and improving the parking lot.

“It’s a rolling capital campaign where we will be building things as we get the support from the community funding,” Bianco said. “The size, scope and timing of the projects and improvements will ultimately be determined by the generosity of the community in support of this effort.”

Once the outdoor space is built, the YMCA anticipates using it not only for classes and community gathering, but also for events like its annual Healthy Kids Day and Trunk-or-Treat event. The Y also partners with organizations including Northampton Parents Center and Girls on the Run, which can also utilize the space.

“Where else in the community do you see all ages, all gender identities, all backgrounds, all coming together in one space, getting along and meeting their own personal wellness goals?” Bianco said. “This really gives us a chance to bring people with different backgrounds together to coexist.”

The open-air gymnasium is the first of three stages of expansion and renovation at the YMCA. Future plans will involve renovating the downstairs locker rooms, lobby area and Wellness Center.

The YMCA’s long-term vision is to “expand and adapt to continue to serve the evolving needs of the children, families and adults in the community,” Bianco said.

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