Attleboro YMCA breaks ground on Early Childhood Center

ATTLEBORO — The Attleboro Norton YMCA broke ground for renovations to its Pleasant Street facility this week.

The groundbreaking signaled the beginning of a $1 million project to create a state-of-the-art Early Childhood Education Center.

The Y secured a $450,000 state grant to put toward the renovation, which is scheduled to begin this month.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to providing exceptional childcare services,” Y Chief Executive Officer Leigh Fontes said in a news release. “With the groundbreaking of our renovation project, we’re not just building classrooms. We’re shaping futures and creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.”

Currently the center is licensed for 45 children. When the renovation is complete it will be licensed for 65. The classrooms will accommodate children age 6 weeks to 5 years old.

The initiative significantly benefits the community by offering affordable childcare options that are comparable to higher-cost centers, officials said.

The Y says it will reserve 51% of slots for low-income families for a minimum of five years with a commitment to maintaining at least 30% of low-income slots thereafter.

Renovation will include upgrades to the HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems.

New flooring, lighting, windows and high-security doors will be installed.

The enhancements will also include the installation of hand-washing sinks in all classrooms.

The project will create job opportunities for 20 early childhood education professionals, officials said.