Monroe YMCA returns to Fort Monroe in Hampton

Peninsula Metropolitan YMCA has leased 34,020 square feet of space at Building 171 in the historic former army base at Fort Monroe.

According to Divaris Real Estate Inc. (DRE), the leasing agent for the 565-acre National Historic Landmark District in Hampton, the Fort Monroe YMCA dates to 1903 when it was the first YMCA on an Army post in the U.S. The facility closed when military personnel were transferred away from the base. 

“We are extremely pleased that the building will be reopening for use as a YMCA,” Glenn Oder, executive director of the Fort Monroe Authority, said in a statement. “Having them back here at Fort Monroe is very significant for our progress as a place to live, work and enjoy recreation.”

Fort Monroe was decommissioned in 2011 when many of its functions were taken over by nearby Fort Eustis. It was designated as a national monument later that year. Since then the Chamberlin Hotel on the property was transformed into senior living apartments.

DRE’s Sanford M. “Sandy” Cohen, chief operating officer, Chris Bendit and Elizabeth Greer of Divaris’ Virginia Beach office represented the landlord, Fort Monroe Authority, in the transaction.

The former base is managed by a Divaris affiliate, Old Point Comfort Real Estate Services LLC.