Last modified: Thursday, May 24, 2007 1:31 AM EDT Mansfield branch of Y in line for $400,000 facelift BY MICHAEL GELBWASSER SUN CHRONICLE STAFF MANSFIELD - The Mansfield branch of the Hockomock Area YMCA will undergo a roughly $400,000 renovation this summer into an Arts and Education Center. A grand opening is eyed for September, YMCA Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tony Calcia told selectmen Wednesday night. The YMCA first introduced the community to the programs and new look for the 91-year-old building at 40 Balcom St. during an August 2006 open house. The renovations will be funded by a capital campaign that's under way, which also will fund the renovation and expansion of the Foxboro branch and improvements at the Sharon teen center, Calcia said. Mansfield and Foxboro Executive Director James Downs said renovations will make the Mansfield branch "specifically for art education." One classroom will host studio arts such as pottery, painting and drawing. The center room will host a kitchen, some studio arts, classroom space, and individual and group music lessons. A third classroom will be more oriented toward teens, with computers. Also, a stage that "has not been used as a stage since we opened there" will be renovated for theater and drama programs, Downs said. Outdoor and summer theater sessions are expected too. A darkroom will be part of the renovations as well. That's "something that a lot of people in the community said they'd love to have," Downs said. Calcia said research has shown "a huge trend toward art education to enhance the value of a YMCA membership." Arts programs at YMCAs also can benefit communities where arts were among school budget cuts, Calcia said. The Mansfield branch will offer programs free to the public after the fall grand opening, he said. "We really think that we'll create some excitement and interest," Calcia said. Calcia said the Mansfield branch will continue running camps during the renovations. However, sessions will be held elsewhere during rainy days.