by Mike Sharkey
Staff Writer
Bright Horizons Family Center may not close after all.
Earlier this month the day care center on North Market Street was informed by its landlord, Bank of America, that the lease for the facility would not be renewed when it expires in March. But, a new landlord may be on the way.
Although a final decision has not been made, the YMCA may assume the lease on the day care center, which employs about 30 people and currently has 98 children registered (Bright Horizons is licensed to handle 112 children).
“We are looking into it,” said Teresa Rogers, executive director of the YMCA. “A parent’s group has asked us to look into it. They want us to handle the preschoolers. We are looking into it and seeing what our options are.”
The facility serves 70 families, many of whom work in the downtown area. With two branches downtown — one on Riverside Avenue and the other in the Bank of America tower — taking over the center is logistically feasible for the YMCA. Finances, however, are another matter as are other considerations.
“Next week, we will make a decision,” said Rogers, adding that next week meant probably Thursday or Friday. “We will look at the number of kids and the leasing rate.”
Rogers said the YMCA may consider approaching another bank for financial backing, but may try to run the center on its own.
“We are a not-for-profit, but having sponsorship helps,” said Rogers. “We are just in the beginning steps. We haven’t talked with any banks or other companies. There’s not much time, but we’ll take the time we need.”
Rogers said if the YMCA does take over the center, they will use a combination of current Bright Horizons employees and YMCA employees.