The YMCA of Greater Providence has announced that it will lower all membership rates as of Jan. 1, and the Cranston YMCA has another reason to celebrate as the calendar turns with the opening of its newly refurbished gymnasium.

“We’re pretty excited,” said Cranston YMCA Executive Director Michael Norklun regarding the lower rates. “We really wanted to make sure we’re accessible.”

In its announcement, the YMCA states that “Current members’ rates will drop, new members will pay the new lower rates, and as always, financial assistance will be available to all who qualify.”

“Our focus at the YMCA of Greater Providence is to ensure access and inclusion for all members of our community,” said Jim Berson, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Providence. “Lowering our rates is consistent with our goal of being a community resource for all. I am excited that these changes will enable more people to enjoy all that our YMCA has to offer.”

Monthly membership costs will drop depending on the category. In addition, young adults who currently are required to get teen memberships when they turn 18 are included in the family rate until they are 26 years old.

An individual membership will drop from $49.95 to $44.95; the family membership will drop from $78.95 to $69.95.

The YMCA of Greater Providence includes the organization’s branches in Barrington, Warwick, Cranston, the East Side of Providence, North Kingstown and Seekonk, Mass.

Norklun echoed Berson’s remarks, saying the organization has put added emphasis on the “concept of access.” At the Cranston YMCA, which serves many middle- and lower-income families, Norklun said the approach takes on added importance.

“We’re pretty proud of that,” he said. “The rate change only makes it easier [to serve the community].”

The Cranston YMCA is also preparing to open its new gymnasium to the public on Dec. 26. Norklun said the gym, which has new flooring, lighting and basketball equipment, will be a great asset to the location, and a grand opening ceremony is planned in January.

As 2014 arrives, Norklun also said the YMCA provides a range of programs and facilities to serve as “the go-to choice for your New Year’s resolutions.”

“We’re here for the New Year,” he said.

For additional information, visit www.ymcagreaterprovidence.org or call 943-0444.