McGaw YMCA is set to begin new interior signage installations, including the “Emerson Street Walkway,” honoring the legacy of the historic Emerson Street YMCA. 

EVANSTON, IL. — McGaw YMCA is excited to announce that installation of interior signage for its Signage & Wayfinding project will begin in October. This marks a significant milestone in the Y’s ongoing efforts to streamline navigation within and around the 1000 Grove Street building. 

During this phase, surfaces will be prepped for the installation of the first round of large-format wayfinding graphics in key areas. Permanent ADA-compliant room signs and directories will then be installed throughout the building, except on the Men’s Residence floors and Level 2 in that wing due to the anticipated renovation of the residence. Learn more about the installation phase. 

Emerson Street Walkway 

A key highlight of the interior phase is the naming of the main walkway that leads from the lobby to member amenities as the “Emerson Street Walkway.” This name pays tribute to the historic Emerson Street Branch YMCA, a beloved hub of social and civic life for Black Evanstonians for over 60 years until its closure in 1969. By naming this central thoroughfare, the Y aims to create a clear path that connects members to a significant part of the organization’s heritage and the YMCA’s history in Evanston.  

“Naming our main walkway in tribute to the Emerson Street YMCA is a step forward in honoring our past while guiding the future,” said Monique Parsons, President and CEO of McGaw YMCA. “The Emerson Street Y holds a significant place in our community’s history, and this dedication brings its legacy to the heart of our building, making our past visible and celebrating the shared history of the YMCAs in Evanston.” 

The Emerson Street Walkway will be marked with official signage during the first round of installation. Large-format graphics will then be installed along the path to help bring the Emerson Street Y memories to life. Once the walkway is complete in 2025, McGaw YMCA will host a special dedication and ribbon cutting. This event will celebrate the installation and offer former Emerson Street Y members, current McGaw Y members, and the community a chance to experience and honor the tribute to the historic Emerson Street Branch YMCA. 

NOTICE: Due to unforeseen production delays, the dedication and ribbon-cutting event for the Emerson Street Walkway, originally scheduled for Friday, November 15, will be postponed. While signage installation will continue as planned, the final walkway graphics honoring the cherished memories of Emerson Street Y will be completed in 2025. We’ll announce a new celebration date soon, and we look forward to gathering with the community for this special occasion. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

The multi-year Signage & Wayfinding Project aligns with McGaw YMCA’s mission to provide equitable access to transformational experiences and its vision of being a place of belonging for all. To learn more, visit www.mcgawymca.org/signage.