The expansion of the Warren County YMCA into Sheffield’s Ruth Smith Center is a win-win proposition for everyone involved.

It’s easier for Sheffield area residents to get physical activity, particularly in the winter months, while the Ruth Smith Center’s gym space has been been renovated with a new heating and air conditioning system, LED lighting and sound system, updates to the floors and new bathrooms — and free membership for Ruth Smith Center residents and employees.

A grand opening will be held from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8, but you don’t have to wait to see the new facility. It’s been in use now, with as many as 50 people a day using it already.

Kudos to sponsors like Bob Sokolski, Arthur Stewart and Dan Mead for contributing to the project, and also to the Community Foundation of Warren County for its recent three-year, $18,000 commitment to the project.

Expanding the YMCA’s offerings into Sheffield is a worthwhile endeavor that we’re glad to see is receiving the community’s support.