City First Bank facilitated $24 million in financing to redevelop the YMCA Anthony Bowen into a modern, mixed-use facility—preserving its legacy as a vital community resource. The revitalized Y anchors a 170-unit apartment building with underground parking and retail, and offers a full-service fitness and wellness center, child-care facility, indoor swimming pool, Internet café, and rooftop terrace. This investment enabled the Y to provide subsidized and fee-free services for low- and moderate-income families along the U Street corridor.
Founded in 1853 and originally built in 1912, the YMCA Anthony Bowen has long served as a hub for education, wellness, and civic engagement in Washington, DC. After 70 years at its original location, the Y relocated in 1988 to 1325 W Street NW to better meet the evolving needs of the community. In 2013, the aging facility was redeveloped with intentionality to honor its original design and purpose—ensuring its continued role as a place of connection, opportunity, and resilience.
Anthony Bowen, the Y’s founder and namesake, purchased his family’s freedom in 1830. His vision created a space which nurtured the greatness of Dr. Charles Drew; housed Langston Hughes while a busboy; and harbored Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall while he mapped out Brown vs. Board of Education.