By RYAN SKAITH
Several community leaders and residents attended a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday afternoon to help the YMCA of St. Joseph celebrate the Mid-America National Aquatic Center.
The project is a partnership between the YMCA, the City of St. Joseph, Buchanan County, and Mosaic Life Care.
The state-of -art facility is designed to serve families, athletes, and residents for generations. The new center will provide a range of programming, including water aerobics, life-saving swim lessons, recreational swimming, and specialized aqua therapy.
At the heart of the expansion is a premier 50-meter Myrtha pool, featuring 10 lanes with depths ranging from 4 to 12 feet and two 1-meter diving boards. The facility is being built to host major events, offering a mezzanine-level spectator area, concessions, and multi-purpose rental spaces. Details have been designed with inclusivity in mind, including ADA-accessible locker rooms and dedicated family changing areas to ensure a welcoming environment for all visitors.
CEO of the YMCA of St. Joseph, Tammy Killin, says over $15-million has been raised with the City of St. Joseph chipping in $7-million. Other funding has come from private donations and Buchanan County.
In addition to competitive features, the center will house a dedicated 84-degree multipurpose pool. This warmer environment includes zero-entry access and interactive water play features for younger swimmers, alongside four 20-yard lanes specifically designed for rehabilitation, instructional programs, and aquatic exercise.
Killin expressed excitement for the what the new pool will mean for the community. “It will be phenomenal for St. Joseph and the surrounding community. We are so excited it will be offered for the public to utilize. You don’t have to have a membership. Day passes are available”
St. Joseph Mayor, John Josendale, gave a special thank you to the community for continued support of the project.
Construction of the new aquatic center is expected to be complete by autumn of 2027.
The YMCA of St. Joseph is located at 3601 N. Village Drive.
