WASHINGTON
The ribbon cutting at the Washington YMCA’s new Aquatic Center on Tuesday, Dec. 10 was nothing short of a “momentous event.” The gathering of donors and community members from …
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WASHINGTON
The ribbon cutting at the Washington YMCA’s new Aquatic Center on Tuesday, Dec. 10 was nothing short of a “momentous event.” The gathering of donors and community members from across the county marked a significant milestone and accomplishment for the YMCA of Washington County, as the pool opening was a long time coming, and the fundraising and construction process littered with challenges.
Everyone was all smiles inside the balmy pool area as folks laid eyes on the two pools, whirlpool, and saunas for the first time during the open house Tuesday evening. Sweet and thematic treats like cake and goldfish crackers helped elevate the mood, but most were impressed by the facilities themselves, which were now oft-seen illustrations brought to life.
A wall recognizes a long list of donors to the YMCA’s newest addition, not least of which is the Washington County Riverboat Foundation, which awarded a $3,000,000 grant for the project. WCRF logos and signage can be seen throughout the new facility.
“When we opened the first phase of this project, it was on June 1, 2020. We were just able to come back to our facilities during the COVID crisis, and we were not able to pull off the grand opening, and I think that’s okay, because families today feel like it’s more special,” Amy Schulte, CEO of the YMCA of Washington County, said following the ribbon cutting. “We have a full and unique facility that we spent a lot of time on, and the community has donated a lot of resources and funds for. So, I think it’s only fitting that this our true grand opening for the YMCA, and I’m just really proud to have been a part of it.”
The YMCA’s former building in downtown Washington was close to 100 years old; the YMCA sold it earlier this fall.
The Aquatic Center boasts a six-lane competition pool, a recreation pool with a range of more shallow depths, a whirlpool that accommodates up to seven, and both infrared and traditional saunas.
Thursday, Dec. 12 was the pools’ official opening day. For the first 60 days, until mid-February, the pool will only be open to YMCA members and donors. After that point, day passes will be available to guests for $10.
Lap swims and adult exercise classes, including aquarobics, water walking, and tabata, are available, as are hours for open family swim. Hours and a complete schedule are available online at washingtony.org.
