The gymnastics area is being looked at for expansion to allow more room for growing programs for both the YMCA and Austin High School. -- Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com

The YMCA in Austin announced a renovation project Tuesday that would turn a racquetball court and a tennis court into a toddler play area and youth open gym with expanded gymnastics area, among other changes.

The Y announced the renovation through an e-mail to members. There will be several changes to the fitness center including an updated kids gym with new indoor play structure for toddlers and elementary students, part of an emphasis on youth and family fitness areas.

“We really feel that the Y is a place where people can come to develop those healthy habits,” said Jaime Annis, marketing and communications coordinator.

The Y’s gymnastics area will be dramatically expanded, including a new above ground gymnastics foam pit. The gymnastics equipment will be reconfigured to address safety issues Y staff have seen since the program has grown.

“That’s one of the things that we wanted to address first,” Annis said.

The expanded gymnastics area is part of the Y’s push to build a strong program for children at a young age through high school students.

Annis said renovations were expected to start in November or December. Though there is no firm timeline for the renovation, Annis said she expected the project to be done in January. The project will not involve a Y expansion.