Anyone with any doubts about the positive impact of a new Y at Mahackeno only had to attend the first P&Z hearing where the Family Y's representatives and consultants presented its application. After learning what the new facility and location will provide compared with the old one, I am very excited and convinced that the new Y will truly be a gift to the Westport Weston community.

The presentation by Kevin Smith, lead architect on the project for the Robert A.M Stern firm and a Westport resident, included a computer-generated animated tour of the new facility. An aerial view shows that it's beautiful and, because of the unique design, barely visible from the Merritt and surrounding properties.

The new building will make up for a number of deficiencies in the old building. For example, it will have regulation size basketball courts and a pool that can accommodate lap swimmers, family swims, and lessons all at the same time. It will have the headroom to allow for a full competitive gymnastics program.

The fact that it will be energy efficient to LEED standards and ADA compliant is also important information.

In short, it will be a great looking, modern, state-of-the-art place for the Family Y to meet the programming

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and service needs of the community. I hope it will be approved by the P&Z and can't wait for it to be built!

Marcy Rappaport, Westport