YMCA new aquatic center set to break ground Tuesday

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The YMCA broke ground on the Mid-America National Aquatic Center at 1 p.m. on Tuesday. 

The new aquatic facility will offer comprehensive programming, including water aerobics, swim lessons, water safety, recreational swimming, competitive training and aqua therapy.

The facility will feature a 50-meter Myrtha pool with 10 lanes, depths ranging from 4 to 12 feet and two 1-meter diving boards, along with a mezzanine-level spectator area, multipurpose rental space and concessions.

The facility will also feature an 84-degree multipurpose pool with zero-entry access, water play features for younger swimmers and four 20-yard lanes for aerobics, rehabilitation and instructional programs.

Additionally, there will be ADA-accessible locker rooms and family changing rooms. The facility will be open to the general public all year around.

YMCA CEO, Tammy Killin said the entire purpose of the project overall to serve the entire community.

"Not only are we meeting the needs of lap swimmers and for water aerobics and for competitive swim teams but we also want to include it for the younger children and for the older folks too," she said.

Killin said the facility will give more space for the swim teams to practice.

"Be able to hold meets here for them. Bigger meets as well and even national meets," she said.

Killin said it's important to recognizing all of the donors.

"From again for those who donated even five dollars to the million dollar donor," she said. "Theres so many people that have made this come together and that is really the sense of community that were so grateful to be apart of," she said.

The facility is expected to be completed by the fall of 2027.