From ice cream to exercise: YMCA coming to old pharmacy site

For decades, College Pharmacy on Malcolm Boulevard in Rutherford College was a hub of community life in the small town.

In addition to friendly and efficient prescription service, the old-style pharmacy had a lunch counter in the back which not only dished up Southern-style breakfast and lunch but ice cream cones as well.

“It was a real gathering place,” said Mayor Yates Jensen. “Everybody went there and that ice cream was a real treat when I was a kid.”

Well, there may not be hot dogs or ice cream available, but the old pharmacy now stands on the cusp of again being a hub of community life as over the next few months it will transform into the Rutherford College YMCA.

Announcement of the expansion into Rutherford College was made last week by the YMCA of Catawba Valley, who said the new Y will be an unstaffed facility which will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The YMCA of Catawba County is also the parent organization of The Phifer Family YMCA in Morganton that also provides 24/7 access to its members.

YMCA officials noted that Malcolm Boulevard is one of the most traveled traffic corridors in the region, with an estimated 13,000 people passing the new Y location each day.

“This project is about much more than opening another fitness facility,” said Blake Millinor, president and CEO of Valdese Weavers, which is located on Lovelady Road just a short drive from the new Y.

“The Rutherford College YMCA is an investment in this community and a great example of what can happen when local partners come together to create greater access to health and wellness.”

Of the new Y’s impact on Rutherford College, Jensen said, “We’re very excited about what this will mean for our town and the surrounding communities. Having the YMCA here will give our folks a wonderful place to exercise, stay healthy, and spend time together.

“More than anything,” he continued, “it’s an opportunity to bring people together and make our community an ever-better place to live.”

A UNC Health Blue Ridge official also commented on the new YMCA.

“The future of the Y in Burke County is about meeting people where they are,” said Chief Operating Officer Drew Thomas of the new facility.

“Phifer and Rutherford College will serve different roles,” Thomas continued, “but they share the same purpose: helping people and communities thrive. We are excited about what these investments mean for the future of health and wellness across Burke County.”

Here are some quick answers to questions likely to arise about the new Y.

When will the new Y be open?

The new YMCA is set to open in January of 2027. More details will be announced as that date gets closer.

What will the hours be?

The new YMCA will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This will allow members to work out before heading to work, after work, or in the late evening or early morning.

Will YMCA staff be at the new facility?

The Rutherford College YMCA will be a non-staffed facility, but, while no staff will be stationed there, the YMCA will regularly visit for cleaning, maintenance, and other operational needs.

Who can use the new Y?

The Rutherford College YMCA is designed specifically for adults age 18 or older. Because of the facility’s non-staffed, 24/7 model, children, teens, and guests will not be permitted.

What fitness equipment will be available?

The Y will have the essentials needed for a great workout. A wide selection of strength training and cardio equipment will be available.

How do I learn more?

Go to the YMCA of the Catawba Valley website at ymcacv.org. Or visit their newly-created Facebook page, “Rutherford College YMCA.”