Officials have provided an update to the situation at a Hamilton YMCA following a devastating fire earlier this week.
In a release, YMCA representatives confirmed the damage was worse than originally thought.
“When the Fire Marshal’s office returned the building to the YMCA on July 23, we promptly engaged our insurance providers to begin restoration efforts,” the statement read.
“Unfortunately, the damage is more extensive than we initially anticipated.”
Officials went on to say while they were hoping for a quick return of their residents, there is an “urgent need” for a more lengthy, comprehensive transition plan.
READ MORE: ‘Not knowing is the hardest part’: Hundreds of men displaced by fire at YMCA in Hamilton
The fire in the men’s residence on July 22 prompted the evacuation of 173 occupants, and sent 11 people to the hospital for treatment.
For the time being, the displaced will remain at a separate facility, and stay overnight with Red Cross support through the weekend.
The downtown branch will be closed until at least next week.
YMCA Hamilton, Burlington and Brantford president, Manny Figueiredo, noted the difficulty this fire has been for the community in a statement.
“This has been a tremendous time of crisis and it’s been very difficult for our residents, members, and the entire community,” Figueiredo said.
“Together, we will overcome this adversity and continue to build a stronger, more connected community.”
READ MORE: 24 people rescued, 11 in hospital after multiple-alarm fire at downtown Hamilton YMCA