The Kent YMCA has broken ground

After years of prospecting and planning, we’re excited to announce that we’ve officially broken ground on the new Kent YMCA. This brand new, state-of-the-art facility features 50,000-square-feet that will serve 15,000 people, reaching South King County where there is an increased need for youth and family programming.

This project is off to a great start thanks to a strong partnership with the City of Kent, philanthropic support from individuals and foundations, the State of Washington, and King County, as well as the Kent community’s generosity and thoughtful input.

With 125,000 residents — more than one in four of them under the age of 18 — Kent is an ideal place for families and seniors, singles and couples, and everyone in between. Kent is home to growing businesses, vibrant social opportunities, and rich diversity.

But there’s something missing.

Kent has too few places where people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds can come together to be active and healthy, educated, and inspired by one another—engaged in building a stronger community for us all.

This new facility brings:

• Comprehensive state-of-the-art facility
• Dedicated community gathering spaces
• Exceptional aquatic center with lap lanes and family swim areas
• Gym, group fitness, and cardio spaces
• Indoor and outdoor recreation surrounded by Morrill Meadows Park
• A New American Welcome Center for newcomers
• Significant expansion of school, child care, and enrichment programs for youth

To celebrate the official beginning of the construction process, the Y and the City of Kent held a groundbreaking ceremony on July 21. The Kent community came together to help break ceremonial ground, but also to showcase what’s to come through fitness class samples, gaga ball, chronic disease prevention information and tons of fun for kids.

Did you miss the groundbreaking? Don’t fret! Here’s a video recap of the event.